Say SCsicie a SLISSISER LL Les cs rs SNe Fara es r; of reread neratretet eae ee NA Ces OO aeatte 17, COL eas ids * ry, My tne Y REG er: Rte vfs! rh ee Ae, , (i f. G oe eer ert BOSD a Se Web, be RAAT . ~ Sareea tate pea beret Dou a ¥ ; Atos i Anos ay * Wh Rah Ss : ‘ " e ne ‘ RAS SRR & Sh sts a is "1 ee : : Sas rhe eke . 8 Rahatehttane aS AHA Nh SMH: SERN teas SEES SENN SS aa Roa vo ; pete yeh Le Te ALF ta <. SS ata te eS ~ ea oe he Se See = Sake Ses, orate: = 2S aS sssie o sporalptet Py Wiig ¥ Age el Pee Mart penitent geree ,, ste Petey a Se ie SS DUKE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY THE DARIEN PAPERS: \ BEING A SELECTION OF \ @ \ ORIGINAL LETTERS AND OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS RELATING TO THE \ | \ ESTABLISHMENT OF A COLONY AT DARIEN BY THE Rahn OF SCOTLAND TRADING TO AFRICA AND THE INDIES. \ \ 1695-1700. PRINTED AT EDINBURGH: MDCCCXLIX. o> ADR oe | Mm y hl Mf mio hae | , aa rh oy ‘es Ara Meeting of the CommirTEx of the Bannatyne Civs, held on Tuesday the 25th of July 1848 :— RESOLVED,— That a Volume of Oricinan Lerrers and Papers, relating to the EsTABLISHMENT of a CoLony at Darien, by the Company of ScoTLAND Trapine to Arrica and the InprEs, to be Selected and Edited by JoHn H. Burton, Esq., Advocate, be Printed for the Members of the Bannatyne Club. Extracted from the Minutes of the Club, DAVID LAING, Secretary. a, AOE init eA oun are St hs ats ag ; f + Was AaRaUKX be : Megs aT 08 t: ue giian, ta , ee. Xba Dy. YHA = : aay ALS , 1 Te Rh fe f ie rs ot ae THE BANNABYNE CLUB. AUGUST, M.DCCC.XLIX. THOMAS THOMSON, ESQ, PRESIDENT. THE EARL OF ABERDEEN. VICE-ADMIRAL SIR CHARLES ADAM. THE EARL OF ASHBURNHAM. LORD BELHAVEN AND HAMILTON. WILLIAM BLAIR, ESQ. BERIAH BOTFIELD, ESQ. THE MARQUESS OF BREADALBANE. SIR THOMAS MAKDOUGALL BRISBANE, BART. 1 i—) GEORGE BRODIE, ESQ. CHARLES DASHWOOD BRUCE, ESQ. 0. TYNDALL BRUCE, ESQ. THE DUKE OF BUCCLEUCH AND QUEENSBERRY. VERY REVEREND DEAN RICHARD BUTLER. JAMES CAMPBELL, ESQ. PATRICK CHALMERS, ESQ. SIR GEORGE CLERK, BART. HON. HENRY COCKBURN, LORD COCKBURN, (V/CE-PRESIDENT.) DAVID CONSTABLE, ESQ. .: 20 ANDREW COVENTRY, ESQ. JAMES T. GIBSON CRAIG, ESQ., (TREASURER.) 30 4 cS 7 THE BANNATYNE CLUB. WILLIAM GIBSON CRAIG, ESQ. GEORGE CRANSTOUN, ESQ. * THE MARQUESS OF DALHOUSIE. THE MARQUESS OF DOUGLAS AND CLYDESDALE. HENRY DRUMMOND, ESQ. RIGHT HON. SIR DAVID DUNDAS. GEORGE DUNDAS, ESQ. WILLIAM PITT DUNDAS, ESQ. THE EARL OF ELLESMERE. JOSEPH WALTER K. EYTON, ESQ. LIEUT-COL, ROBERT FERGUSON. COUNT MERCER DE FLAHAULT. THE EARL OF GOSFORD. WILLIAM GOTT, ESQ. ROBERT GRAHAM, ESQ. THE EARL OF HADDINGTON. THE DUKE OF HAMILTON AND BRANDON. SIR THOMAS BUCHAN HEPBURN, BART. JAMES MAITLAND HOG, ESQ. JAMES R. HOPE, ESQ. RIGHT. HON. JOHN HOPE, LORD JUSTICE-CLERK. COSMO INNES, ESQ. DAVID IRVING, ESQ., LL.D. HON. JAMES IVORY, LORD IVORY. SIR HENRY JARDINE. HON. FRANCIS JEFFREY, LORD JEFFREY. THE EARL OF KINNOULL. DAVID LAING, ESQ., (SECRETARY.) THE EARL OF LAUDERDALE. VERY REVEREND PRINCIPAL JOHN LEE, D.D. LORD LINDSAY. THE BANNATYNE CLUB. JAMES LOCH, ESQ. LORD LOVAT. ALEXANDER MACDONALD, ESQ. HON. J. H. MACKENZIE, LORD MACKENZIE. JAMES MACKENZIE, ESQ. JOHN WHITEFOORD MACKENZIE, ESQ. KEITH STEWART MACKENZIE, ESQ. 6 i] WILLIAM FORBES MACKENZIE, ESQ. ALEXANDER MACONOCHIE, ESQ. JAMES MAIDMENT, ESQ. THOMAS MAITLAND, ESQ., SOLICITOR-GENERAL FOR SCOTLAND. THE VISCOUNT MELVILLE. THE HON. WILLIAM LESLIE MELVILLE. THE EARL OF MINTO. HON. SIR JAMES W. MONCREIFF, BART., LORD MONCREIFF. JAMES PATRICK MUIRHEAD, ESQ. HON. SIR JOHN A. MURRAY, LORD MURRAY. 7 i—) WILLIAM MURRAY, ESQ. ROBERT NASMYTH, ESQ. CHARLES NEAVES, ESQ. THE EARL OF NORTHESK. SIR FRANCIS PALGRAVE, LORD PANMURE. ALEXANDER PRINGLE, ESQ. JOHN RICHARDSON, ESQ. THE EARL OF ROSEBERY. THE DUKE OF ROXBURGHE. 80 RIGHT HON. ANDREW RUTHERFURD, LORD ADVOCATE. THE EARL OF SELKIRK. JAMES SKENE, ESQ. WILLIAM SMYTHE, ESQ. 90 ALEXANDER THOMSON, ESQ. 95 ADAM URQUHART, ESQ. THE BANNATYNE CLUB. JOHN SPOTTISWOODE, ESQ. EDWARD STANLEY, ESQ. ay REVEREND WILLIAM STEVENSON, D.D. » THE HON. CHARLES FRANCIS STUART. THE DUKE OF SUTHERLAND. ARCHIBALD SWINTON, ESQ. SIR WALTER CALVERLEY TREVELYAN, BART. | WILLIAM B. D. D. TURNBULL, ESQ. { ’ DAWSON TURNER, ESQ. 7 Si or weeded Ree aL ‘3 PATRICK FRASER TYTLER, ESQ. Hiyt ‘ieted \ = es f o ag ALGT 4 oe ie. RIGHT HON. SIR GEORGE WARRENDER, BART. er ans nt ; pelle Pass cae to Aiea shhe Pal at. sv bend bra ; a 18 Het sete. ti 8 4 Pi, sel wht Fe VAG ™ ~ ind bab aden i bina esa eae dt at a i. = ale Os . ra ” < ee Me eS = ae id 4 tei erie Gam are ) i ed era 1 nee eg f. ’ teen ai | * , ml i; 5 ae ” ie Ne CONTENTS. PAGE PREFACE, : : ; 3 5 & : u : XV I.—LertrTers rromM WILLIAM PATERSON TO THE LorD Provost or EDINBURGH. London, 4th July 1695, . : ‘ : : : , 1 London, 9th July 1695, 2 London, 6th August 1695, 4 London, 15th August 1695, London, 3d September 1695, . 6 London, 5th September 1695, . 7 London, 19th September 1695, vi London, 15th October 1695, 8 IJ.—Minutes AND ABSTRACTS OF PROCEEDINGS. An Abstract of the Proceedings of the Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland Trading to Africa and the Indies, commencing the 15th day of June and ending the 21st day of July 1696, : : , . 9 Farther Abstract of the Proceedings of the Court of Directors, . 11 An Abstract of the Proceedings of the Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland Trading to Africa and the Indies, from the 8d day of August to the 12th day of November 1696, : ; : ° : : 13 I1..—Minvres or Commirrees. The Committee of Foreign Trade, 23d July 1696, P : : 19 The Committee of Foreign Trade, 28th July 1696, : : 20 The Committee of Foreign Trade, 22d August 1696, . . 21 A Joint Committee of Foreign Trade and Improvements, 30th September 1696, ; 23 A Joint Committee of the date pene Standing Condens, 20th are 1696, : . 25 A Joint Committee of s sévarel Standing Gensel 22d October 1696, : 26 b CONTENTS. PAGE A Particular Committee appointed to examine the business of the several Accomptants, Clerks, and other Officers, 13th November 1696, i ‘ 28 Establishment of the “several Officers and Servants, &c., By the Court of Directors, . } ° ‘ : ‘ ‘ , » 80 IV.—Exrracts rrom THE Mrxvte-Book or THE CommitTrEE OF LaPROVEMENTS, 7 May 1696 to 27th January 1697, . : ° : :) V.—De.ecation TO Procurators To Assign Stock To ForeIGNers, 16th September 1696, : ‘ : : ; 5 . VI.—Mnnvtes or Aprorntment or AppiT10oNAL Councitiors, 3d March 1697, 45 VII.—Satine Instructions To Captain WILLIAM TENNANT, 20th August 1697, . 47 VIII.—AppornTMENT OF THE CoUNCIL OF THE CoLony, 12th July 1698, . 49 IX.—InstructTions TO THE COUNCIL OF THE COLONY, same date, “ = 53 X.—AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE Court oF Directors AND GILBERT Stewart, 7th September 1698, : 57 XI.—Mr. Hues Rose’s Journat, 1698. Journal or Diary of the most remarkable things that happened during the Scots African and Indian Fleet, in their Voyage from the Island of Madeira to their landing in America, and since that time, , 4 60 XU.—Lerrers RELATING TO THE PLANTING OF THE First CoLony. Hector Mackenzie to Mr. Haldane of Gleneagles, 21st December, 1698, 3 79 Captain Long’s Letter from Jamaica, concerning the Scots settling in Caledonia, 81 XII1.—Parers RELATING T0 THE TRANSACTIONS OF THE COLONY WITH THE SPANIARDS AND OTHER NeIGHBouRS, February and March 1699. Letter from Mr. Montgomerie to the Council, 84 The Council of Caledonia to the Governor of Santa Maria, : 86 Treaty between the Council of Caledonia and the Chief Diego of Darien, 87 The Governor of Santa Maria’s Letter to the Council of Caledonia, - 88 Commission and Instructions by the Misses § of Caledonia to Alexander Maighie, 89 Letter by the Council of Caledonia to the Gover of Carts : 91 A Memorial to the Right Honourable the Viscount of Seafield and Lord Car- michael, His Majesty’s Principal Secretaries of State, from the Council General of the Company of Scotland Trading to Africa and the Indies, = 93 Letter from William Paterson to the Court of Directors, 98 Articles of Agreement betwixt the Council of Caledonia and Captain Epis Pilkingtoun, 101 CONTENTS. x1 PAGE XIV.—PAPERS RELATING TO CAPTAIN PINCARTONE’S IMPRISONMENT. Statement by Captain Robert Pincartone, 20th September 1700, ' ee) a2 Statement by James Graham, same date, P 2 : : et LOS Questions proposed to Captain Pincartone by the Judges at Sevil, and his Answers, . wy! 105 Letter from the Pianos to the Diteetors of ae Caatbe Sevilla ey 28th May 1700, . ° ; - - : d : =| £08 Sentence against Captain Pincartone and others, - - 109 Declaration by Captain Pincartone and James Graham, 4th a anuary 1701, a PLO XV.—RULES AND ORDINANCES FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF THE CoLony, 24th April 1699, : : : - z : E : inks 8 XVI.—Sarine ORDERS AND Sienats, 24th February 1699, p oy ELS XVII.—DEsPATCHES AND LETTERS FROM THE DIRECTORS TO THE COUNCIL AT THE Cotony, February to June, 1699. 24th February, : : : ; : : - : 121 15th April, . : . - : : : : - . 124 22d April, . - : ‘ : : : . : 129 24th June, . ; : : : : A ; : 131 17th August, : ‘ : : : 3 : ; 132 18th August, : : : : : ; . ; 136 18th August, ° : . ; . . : 2 139 XVIIL.—Letrers anp DEspATCHES FROM AMERICA TO SCOTLAND, RELATING TO THE Cotony, April to September, 1699. The Council of the Colony to the Directors, 142 George Moffat to Messrs. Joseph Ormston, “aleehes Hamilton, and Camo 143 Adam Cleghorn to Bailie Blackwood, ‘ : é : : 147 Captain Colin Campbell to the Court of Directors, . : : , 150 Mr. John Borland to Mr. Mackay, 4 151 Credentials for Captain Thomas ata, one of the Council of emionss 155 Captain Samuel Veitch to his Brother, . 2 156 John Borland, John Campbell, and John Maxwell, to ae ety : 157 Henry Patton to the Directors, : - % : 160 XTX.—Lerrers anp DespaTcHES BY THE CourT OF DIRECTORS ON HEARING OF THE DESERTION OF THE Cotony, September to October 1699. The Directors to the Council of the Colony, . : ; - 161 The Directors to the Council, &c., on board The Rising Sun, : . 164 The Directors to the Original Council of the Colony (at New York), ; 165 xii CONTENTS. vaGE The Directors to Mr. James Foulis and Company at London, : hg 167 To Captain William Jameson, Commander of the Indian and African Com- pany’s Ship, The Olive Branch ; Captain Alexander Stark, Commander of the Hopeful Binning of Borrowstounness; and all the Land and Sea Officers on board of the said two Ships, . : : ‘ 2 “19 (168 X X.—Instrrvctions, Drrections, AND Sartinc ORDERS TO THE PERSONS DESPATCHED to THE CoLony, September and October 1699. Commission to William Bell, Y 170 To Captain William Bell, Commander of the foes and African Company's BY Ship, The African Merchant, 4 . 7 171 Instructions to Mr. Daniel Mackay, Captain William Veitch, Captain James Gibson, and Major John Lindsay, 3 ¢ i F , - a7 Instructions to Archibald Stewart, Chyrurgeon, ; ; : ri 175 XXI.—DocumMentTs CONNECTED WITH THE APPOINTMENT OF CAPTAIN CAMPBELL OF Fonab, TO THE COMMAND OF THE COLONY. Appointment as Councillor and Commander, 10th October 1699, —. CLA, AGG Instructions to Captain Alexander Campbell of Fonab, one of the new SCoear cellors, d : % : 3 3 5 Hl wif 176 XXII.—Reprort sy Witi1amM Paterson TO THE Directors. Report of Matters relating to the Colony of Caledonia, made to the ‘id Honourable the Court of Directors of the Indian and African Company of Scotland, 19th December 1699, . “ ; : : 3 178 XXIII.—Documents anp Papers ON THE Progress oF THE SECOND EXPEDITION. — Letter from the Council to the Directors, 9th November 1699, P ; 198 Minutes of Meetings of the Council, on board the Rising Sun, in Caledonia Bay, Monday, 4th to 18th December 1699, : ’ - 200 Letter from the Council to the Directors, 23d December 1699, 4 i) “28 XXIV.—PAPERS REGARDING THE DISPUTE BETWEEN CAPTAIN DRUMMOND AND Mr. - Byres, 1699-1701. “yy Queries by Captain Drummond, > 218 A Representation by James Byres to the Court of nehewe in relution to Captain Thomas Drummond, “ 6 5 é ; 4 292 Examination before a Committee of Directors, : fo Vas A Report from the Particular Committee appointed to examine and inquire into the specialties of the several matters of fact represented by James Byres and Captain Thomas Drummond, /inc inde against one another, . : 230 XXV.—Lertrers anp DespATCHES FROM THE CoLony, February, 1700. From the Council to the Directors, 3d February, . é : ‘ 241 CONTENTS. From the Council to the Directors, 7th February, From the Council to the Directors, 27th February, From the Rev. Mr. Alexander Shields, From the same, XX VI.—DocuMENTs CONNECTED WITH THE CAPITULATION TO THE SPANIARDS. Minute of a General Meeting of the Council, 18th March 1700, Commission and Instructions to Captain Veitch, 21st March 1700, XXVU.—Acr or THE Commission OF THE GENERAL AssEeMBLY, 8th December 1699, XXVIU.—Lerrer, Lorp Bast. Hamitton To THE Court or Directors, 2d January 1700, ; X Xi X Private Lerrers FRoM WILLIAM PATERSON. To Patrick Macdowall, 6th February 1700, To Captain Thomas Drummond, same date, . To the Rev. Mr. Alexander Shields, same date, XX X.—DespatcHes AND LETTERS SENT BY THE DIRECTORS TO THE Cotony, 10th February, 1700. The Directors to the Council of the Colony, . ? Address by the Directors to the Officers of the Company, : Address by the Directors to the Clergymen at the Colony, . - i To Major John Lindsay, P 3 F Declaration accompanying the above Letter, To Captain James Gibson, To Captain James Miller, XX XI.—Mr. Hatpane’s Lerrer TO THE Cotony, 13th February 1700, XX XII—REeEport oF THE PRESENTATION OF THE NATIONAL ADDRESS TO THE Kine, 26th March 1700, XXXIIE—ProctaMATION BY THE CouUNCIL-GENERAL, 3d June 1700, XXXIV.—Lerrers anp DEsPATCHES FROM THE DirECTORS TO THE COUNCIL OF THE Cotony, AND OrHers, March to June, 1700. The Directors to the Council of the Colony, . The Directors to a Party unknown in New York, The Directors to the Council of the Colony, . The Directors to the Clergymen at the Colony, The Directors to the Council of the Colony, . The Directors to the Officers of the Company, The Directors to the Clergymen at the Colony, The, Directors to Captain James Miller, The Directors to the Council of the Colony, . xiv CONTENTS. September and December 1700, : \ataa XXXVI.—Insrructions AND SaILinc ORDERS TO THE Coumaxpen « Tn Marearet, 5th March 1700. ; Instructions to Captain Robertson, . 5 be Sailing Orders to Captain Robertson, XXXVII.—Journats oF THE VOYAGE OF THE Suir mide 1700. I. A Breviary of my Journal, and of the most remarkable o myself therein, . d : - 2 II. Account of what most remarkable Spree to us in our Voy Dundee, in Scotland, to New Edinburgh, in New Caledonia, begul of March, 1700, and perfected the 16th June thereafter, and thence be ; England, . : ‘ S : ; : ‘ee ? ot Fe ; ‘ t ‘. r : A Bn ruary to 21st cet: 1696, t 3 { : bys £10). he % iy Vi ye ef fer baht 2 a aes suite siti ape an ay ne 1 ieee eae Ad eran * ore SOs ; si ‘7 P f {7 5 Y it at bee " Shia i aa) oS Te (: i! ‘ i} \ PREFACE. Iy an old oak press in one of the under rooms of the Advocates Library, there has been preserved a collection of books and loose papers, all con- nected with the proceedings of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, commonly known as THE Darien Company. Of these, certain bound volumes were the business-books of the Company ; and the loose papers are letters, accounts, and memorandums of more or less importance. The Editor has been unable to discover the circumstances under which this curious collection came into the possession of the Faculty of Advocates ; but he thinks it probable that, when the affairs of the Com- pany were wound up after the Union, and its miscellaneous property was dispersed, the oak press, containing the business-books of the establishment, was carried from the office, in Bristo Port, across the Cowgate, and deposited in the Advocates Library, as an Institution where it might not unap- propriately be preserved, and which was conveniently near. The collection has been suffered to remain undisturbed in its original repository, except that a large mass of the miscellaneous papers appear to have been collected together, and bound up, without reference to any method of arrangement. This mass constitutes the main source from which the contents of the fol- lowing pages have been selected, and is referred to in the foot-notes as the _ “ Miscellaneous Collection.” xvi PREFACE. In the course of preparing a History of Scotland during the period embraced between the Darien expedition, in which the disputes with England arose, and the Rebellion of 1745, in the suppression of which the consoli- dation of the two countries into one was finally accomplished, the Editor had occasion to make a thorough investigation of the contents of this col- lection of papers. It appeared to him that, besides furnishing materials for the earlier part of his history, many of the documents he inspected must present a separate and independent value to those curious in the history and manners of the times, or interested in the episode of our national history to which they refer. The Council of Taz Bannatyne CLUB expressed their concurrence in this view; and it is through the liberality of that body that the Editor has been enabled to preserve what appeared to him the more valuable part of the documents passing through his hands in a printed form. / The arrangement which appeared best adapted to the character of these materials was generally chronological, subject to a secondary classification into numbered groups of documents bearing a close reference to each other, or applying to a continuous series of transactions. While the Colonists were detailing to the Directors or their friends at home their various operations and adventures, they were at the same time receiving despatches contain- ing accounts-of the proceedings of their constituents. Some months thus generally elapsed before the conduct of the one body was influenced by the information despatched from the other ; and it was necessary, in classifying the documents on both sides, to avoid such a strict arrangement, according to date, as would create a virtual confusion in chronological sequence. It was found that this could be best accomplished, by letting the letters and other papers issued on the one side follow each other in series for a certain moderate period, and then taking up in the same manner the thread of correspondence from the other side. PREFACE. Xvil The first group of documents consists of a series of Letters from William Paterson, the great architect of the project, relating to the formation of the Company, while it was still supposed that English capitalists were to embark in the enterprise, and provide a considerable portion of the funds. These Letters are followed by a few miscellaneous minutes relating to the constitu- tion and primary operations of the Corporation. They are chiefly contained in loose papers, incidentally preserved ; and it may be here observed, that the principal minute-books and letter-books appear to be the only portions of the records of the Company’s proceedings which had been removed before the oak press was deposited in the Advocates Library. It is evident that there must have existed a full record of the proceedings of the Councils General, and of the several meetings of the Directors. Two minor minute- books only, however, remain in the present collection. The one is that of the Committee of Improvements, from which a series of extracts has been made, (pp. 31-44.) The other is a thin volume, bound in vellum, containing “Sederunts of the Committee appointed by the Directors for Equipping their Ships.” It begins on 30th November 1697, and ends on 30th July 1698. It contains some curious information on the mercantile practices of the day; but its most remarkable feature perhaps is the very miscellaneous and apparently totally indefinite character of the duties of the Committee, for their pro- ceedings appear to have ranged from the founding of Colonies, and the establishment of their constitution, to the humblest arrangements for sup- plying the wants of the people employed by them.* * The following are some specimens of the contents of the volume:— December 3d, [December 1697, ] at 9 in the morning. Present only— Dugalston, James Balfour, Mr. Robert Blackwood. They read over the following proposals, and ordered them to be presented to the Court :— That it is the opinion of the Committee, that some at least of the Council for the govern- ment of the Colony abroad be presently agreed with; and having had severals under con- c XViii PREFACE. After the Miscellaneous Minutes, in some of which the first suggestion, and the subsequent adoption of the project of foreign colonization will be found recorded, the documents which follow develop the arrangements sideration, they judge that Major Cunningham of Aickett, William Woodrop, Doctor Munro, and Alexander Stevenson, are fit persons, if they will engage, and therefore desires warrand to treat with and agree with them. It is necessary that one at least be settled with, to be Captain to one of the two ships come home, who may take care to preserve all the stores, rigging, &c., hyre seamen, and do every thing necessary for preparing the said ships to sea; and its their opinion that Captain Lyon will be a fitt man, and desires warrand to settle and agree with him. We judge it absolutely necessary that a small tender be bought, English-built, not exceeding three hundred pounds sterling price, whereby the Colony may send advice to, and trade with the English Planta- tions, and to have and procure from abroad one Captain, and six or eight persons fitt for pilots and other uses, two Secretaries in Spanish, as also to look after Mr. Smyth’s debt, or other affairs of the Company ; for doing all which, we judge it absolutely necessary that a fitt person be sent to London secretly to negotiat all thir affairs. The Directors adjourned the consideration till Tuesday. Adjourns till five in the afternoon, to meet at Maclurg’s Coffeehouse. This meeting was not kept, because of the fire that happened in the Land Mercat. Wednesday, December 8th, [1697,] by 9 o’clock in the morning. Present— Dougallston, William Woodrope, and Mr. Robert Blackwood. Went through the account given in last night to Teuchler, and compared Mr. Stevenson’s account of wages paid at Hamburgh with the same, but before finished, the Directors met. When the three proposals mentioned on the 3d instant were read to the Court to the first, they thought it was necessary that the Council General, to meet this day, should determine, 1mo, Whether the government of the Colony should be by a Governor and Deputy-Governor, or by a Council of 7 or 9; 2do, That the Council should appoint a Committee of their own number, to be joyned with the Committee of the Directors, to consider of the constitutions of the said Colony. To the 2d, they approved of it; and 3d, they approved of it. In the afternoon the Council met, and sat till 8 at night, so there was no adjournment of this Committee. Fryday, December 10, by 10 o’clock in the morning. Present— Baillie James Clark, James Balfour, and Mr. Robert Blackwood. PREFACE. xix made for the first expedition in 1698, and for the government and manage- ment of the settlement. Following on these is the journal of a Mr. Rose, who gives a tolerably lively account of the voyage, the arrival, and the first settlement of a colony of Scotsmen in the new world. The letters and despatches, which bore a relation to the settlement of the emigrants, naturally suggested themselves as entitled to the next place in the arrangement. A carefully drawn map of the isthmus, with the adjoining land and water, in the possession of Mr. Laing, was kindly lent by him to the © Editor, with permission to insert in the volume a lithographic fac-simile of it, which may be found of service in representing the relative position of _Upon a representation from Mr. Herries, Purser of the Caledonia, that he wanted flower for pudding, and that the using of pudding would save as much beef ;— Ordered Ninian Hay, the Company’s Baker, to deliver to him, upon his receipt, twelve stone of flower. Monday, 17th [January 1698.] Ordered Baillie Clark to employ an honest baker to buy 200 bolls wheat in the mercat, as cheap as he can, for ready money, and to give the man that buys it 3sh. or 40d. p. boll for buying, they to carry it to Leith. Thursday morning, the 24th [February 1698,] 7 o’clock. Present— Glen-Eagles, Baillie Balfour, and Mr. Robert Blackwood, who went with Major Cunningham : and Daniel Mackay to Burntisland. 1. We concluded upon the establishment for the sea-officers and seamen. For every captain of the great ships, £10 sterlg. p. month. For every master, £5; Ist mate, £4; 2d mate, £3 p. month. For the gunner, £3; his mate, 28 shill. sterl. Boatswain, £3; his mate, 28 shill. sterl. Chief carpenter, £4; 2d, 50 shill. sterl.; 3d, 40s.; calker, 40s. Quartermaster, 4 to each ship, at 25s. sterl. p. month; to midshipmen, 28s. sterl. p. month. 2 coopers to each ship—Ist, 34s. or 40s. sterl. p. month; 2d, 30s. sterl. 3 cooks—1st cook for men, 40s. sterl.; officers’ cook, 35s.; man, 23s. sterl. Cockswain, 28s. sterl. p. month. Seamen—best, 23s. ster]. p. month; the rest as the captains can agree. xx PREFACE. some of the places mentioned in this group of documents. A few papers now follow, which, relating to the intercourse of the colonists with the natives, the Spaniards, and the French, make us acquainted with the first troubles of the ill-fated adventurers. The next in order is a short code of general laws, which appears to have been drawn up by the Council or “ Parliament” of the Colony in solemn assembly. d The group No. XVII. contains despatches sent from the authorities at home to the colonists, in ignorance of those disasters which were beginning to overtake them, and had been completed before the letters reached ' their destination. The next series of documents affords a pretty full history of these calamities and the desertion of the Colony ; while the next in order shows the impression made on the Directors by these evil tidings, beginning in scepticism, and gradually, as the information is confirmed, waxing into grief, indignation, and a resolution sternly to resume their task, to remedy their disasters, and to defy the false neigh- bours who, in selfish haughtiness, had subjected them to the humiliating calamity. A Report by Paterson to the Directors (p. 178), written after he had returned a broken-hearted man, barely recovered from a fit of derangement occasioned by his long struggle with incidental misfortunes and the incapacity of his colleagues, will be read with me- lancholy interest. It harmonizes with the documents which precede and follow it, in showing the unparalleled incapacity, producing endless blunders, of those who undertook the mighty task of establishing a new Colony for a people totally unacquainted with Colonial empire. Colonising and trading, like all other efforts of human skill or labour, are not, it would appear from these documents, to be lightly undertaken by those who are new to a practical acquaintance with their details. In every- thing they did, the Company at home and the colonists abroad went from one blunder to another. The central and supreme authority, so . PREFACE. XXi absolutely necessary for the organization of a body of men pursuing a purpose at a distance from their parent state, appears to have been totally wanting, and each one seems to have struggled for power and ascendency—the reasonable giving way for the sake of order—the ambitious either obtaining the rule and influence they desired, or, if baffled, sullenly retiring and leaving the public interest to its fate. The same mournful picture is continued in a few private letters from Paterson, which will be found in a later part of the volume. As their appearance is very characteristic of his ardent, restless mind, a Beanie of a portion of one of them has been considered a desirable acquisition to the volume. In September 1699, a reinforcing expedition left the Clyde amid faint rumours of the disasters which had overtaken their predecessors. The documents from No. XXIII. onwards show the progress of this expedi- tion, the re-establishment of the Colony, the effect of the hostile conduct of the English governors of Colonies upon its progress, the slight conflict in which, to the delirious joy of their countrymen, the New Caledonians were successful against the Spaniards, and the terms of capitulation to which, after this illusory gleam of success, they found it necessary to submit. In the spring of the year 1700, a new expedition was fitted out by the Directors, ignorant of this conclusive calamity; and those who composed it arrived at the spot where they expected the hearty welcome of their countrymen, to see the Spanish flag hoisted on the fort of Caledonia. A considerable portion of the latter part of the volume is occupied by narratives of the progress of this third expedition. Reverting to the collection of volumes contained in the old oak press, the reader will naturally believe that it was not without interest that these mute and methodical memorials of an incident connected with so much excitement and suffering—with the hopes and disappointments, the exultations and humiliations of a whole people—were taken from xxii PREFACE. . their long rest, and one by one examined. The first peculiarity in these records of a hundred and fifty years ago is their neat, systematic order, their fresh, business-like appearance, and their perfect similarity to those volumes which in the present day are methodically removed from the office safe, laid on the mahogany desk, and turned over by individuals throned on three-legged stools. The journals and ledgers—many of them of gigantic size—would excite no passing remark on their obsolete ap- pearance if they were seen lying open, with the ink wet, on a bank counter. They are generally bound in parchment, with bands of thick Russia leather at intervals to strengthen the back, worked into the binding with narrow strips of parchment or ribbons, crossing each other in a zig-zag form, with which those who handle ledgers and cash-books are quite familiar. Some of the larger volumes have over the regular binding a sort of loose cover of soft red leather, of the kind still employed to mitigate the wear and tear of books which require to be frequently handled. The accounts are all kept in sterling money. The writing is singularly beautiful and distinct, and would at the present day be called the perfection of bank-clerk caligraphy. Of the scientific character, of the method of book-keeping adopted by the Company, it would be presumption in the Editor to judge ; but it might be a curious object of inquiry, how far it represents novelties, which either the genius or knowledge of the great founder of the scheme had enabled him to impart to its subordinate officers. The double-entry system is pursued by a regular record of daily money transactions being kept, which receives the title of “Cash Journal,” or “Journal to the Cash Ledger.” It begins with 27th June 1696, and ends with Ath April 1707. It resembles pretty minutely in its details a Journal of the present day. The transactions are separated from each other by a broad black line. Thus— . PREFACE XXxill 1696. Sundry persons Debt to Cash, « ) £370 July | 11 for soe much p* them, for w°": they have given their bonds payable in three months, w"": interest at 4 p. cent. p. annum, conform to the warrant of the Committee of Treasurie, viz., 2 | By Mr. Francis Montgomery of Giffen, and Hugh Montgomery, mercht. in Glasgow, p. bond and warrant of thisday, . : : . £200 ? | — Sir William Scott, y' of Harden, as above, 170 ee 370 y ” Dec. | 21 | 1s | Cash D* to Mr. John Frank, advocate, £50 16 53 soe much he paid in this day p. principal he borrowed, p. 24th July last past, w‘ interest at 4 p. ct. to this day, a : : - - 50 1161] 52 The entries of this description are all afterwards posted in their re- spective accounts in the ledger. The subscription books were opened on the 26th of February 1696, and the first entry on them is—‘ We Anne Dutches of Hamilton and Chastlerault, &c., doe subscrive for Thrie Thousand Pounds Ster- ling.” On that day the sum total of the subscriptions amounted to £50,400. By far the greater part of the whole amount was subscribed before the end of March. On the last day of that month there appears, for some reason or other, to have been a sort of rush upon the books. It is noticed on the margin that the subscriptions were continued during the afternoon, and that day presents 176 separate transactions. A separate book was opened at Glasgow on 5th March. The total amount entered in this book is £56,325. In May and June the numbers in the general book became scanty—three, two, and some- times but one entry being made in a day. The books were announced to be closed on the 3d of August, and on the first the whole sum was 5 pot / w wi yr 7 ug fF c akgeny mf +f rmebynl il hn fr PY YY Boks fri paadl | frm, KD ag DMA YNS Ee. fa At ALD apy) i x ar ceri JP eee ee aa ae OME A AME “27 "oe : ad ng prgreongrap 2G, weyprype PIU LE ° 00 - / . 26 | YY Boguny reunee preormnoyp 4 yp hooaeyy( i agar ted W isaie je Gampiers/E 0 ry) qguW)? 2? ; "WO0G NOIWdINISHNS IHL NI SIIYLNI E ie — bap ange reaned ypere say ope | | emi err A acilral ore sep rnete Inauin apni 7 se cd Care ee ) Z ref RN Bag ee: tf Ba ales Ma ayn if Gacteonad Z a of IPVYLMO ae ypu 0 tol) po ee & x ag... ip a Te way pp ee ee 7S Z hip “sf Xx | + loon! oe Agee pee up — “hy COOLS CUM OG TOON OO yr ge frengsy x ac’ ? rene me ee eS Ly) 2 right £78 “ | “P) tte Ll SPY g = 000k ay ae: gn y ie ff burgagyf corod europa 240 * bcte'd Yer. h. ef LDNIO. ‘ihe | Ss iis ae me 777 eae 7 ABE : eee ee | S 3 a 5 a. ; ‘ . en ‘ < ee 4) ‘ay ma & » a ba _ t on . e Ns Ta SS %S wy YTAS b ° Ae SAS So. nd \ = age S23 Se ee = mE NIE u WAKAS = % Saye —~ AN (me {At Says X » Pa eae 5 WNIT 6 IS OCY Q Tax St aso ‘ ‘ * vs & ‘ % ” - : ‘ : ° ‘ E wrt hae 7 . a7 * % ‘ . b - “= r > X\ ee \ q : “ : ae ky r pe y \ ba i f is * ‘ “ saya ; 4 ta ty yy tows) 3 re ; ; . OF PREFACE. XXV in single items, and that very few made any addition to their original subscriptions. Its preamble, dated 3d August 1696, charges “Stock Dr. to sundry persons subscribers £400,000, for so much subscribed by them as adventurers in the joynt stock of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, as p. subscription book, which was this day closed, by order of the Council General of the said Company.” The first entry is “to William Arbuckle, merchant in Glasgow, p. 5th March, £1000, and p. 1st August instant £1000,” but nearly all the other entries give single sums subscribed at once. There is just one peculiar exception, in John Drummond of Newton, who subscribes, “ p. 26th February, £600 ; p. 26th March, £400; p. 10th July, £200; and p- 1st August, £1125.” Lord Basil Hamilton also subscribed in three instalments of £1000 each. A “General Journal” was opened on the first day of the subscription. On each day’s subscription it enters, “sundry persons, their accompt current debtor to stock of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, £ , for so much this day subscribed by them.” Against the cash it records the payments of instalments thus—“ Cash debtor to sundry persons their accompt current £ , for so much paid by them, being their jth of their subscriptions.” The several payments appointed to be made to account of subscriptions are thus described in a preamble to a general abstract of these payments, taken from the ledger and recorded in a separate book. 1mo. The 25 p. cent., p. act of the Patentees the 15th February 1696, made payable 1st June 1696, and bearing interest from ist August 1698. Qdo. The first moiety of the 74 p. cent., p. act of the Council General the 5th September 1698, payable 11th November 1698, bearing interest from said day. d XXvi PREFACE. 3ti. The second moiety of the 74 per cent., p. ditto act, payable at Candlemass 1699, bearing interest from said day. 4to. The 5 p. cent., p. act of the Council General the 30th March 1699, payable 15th May 1699, bearing interest from said day. . 5to. The first 2} p. cent., p. act of the Council General the 18th October 1699, Rit 11th November 1699, bearing interest from said day. 6to. The second 23 p. cent., p. ditto act, payable 2d of February 1700, bearing interest from said day. _ There appear, from the book to which this is prefixed, to have been very few defalcations in the payment of the first instalment of 25 per cent. It should have produced a hundred thousand pounds, and it actually produced £98,223, 17s. 25d. The whole sum paid up in the shape of instalments or calls came to £153,448, 5s. 43. The sum credited as interest under the above conditions was £65,646, 3s. 2%d, making a total sum of £219,094, 8s. 73d. This, then, may be held to be the precise extent of the pecuniary sacrifice incurred by Scotland in the Great Darien scheme.* The “General Cash Book” furnishes a record of the progress of these payments. The first instalment—one-fourth—appears to have been in the majority of instances promptly advanced. Against those payments to this department, which range from the opening of the books to the end of May, a sum equal to three per cent. discount is credited, but after that period it ceases. The whole sum then paid in amounted to £34,006, 13s. 4d. The whole amount paid in at the end of the year 1696, appears to have been £93,917, 1s. 34d. After this period the payments become mixed with the banking and money speculating transactions of * The Railway Bills enacted for Scotland in 1846 authorized the raising of money in name of stock to the extent of £12,116,780; and in name of loans to the extent of £4,906,050. PREFACE. XXVii the Company, payments of the small instalments accompanying repay- ments of loans and charges of interest, &c. The Transfer Book exhibits the same methodical precision by which the others are characterized. Each transaction consists of two signed and attested documents, according to the following specimen :— “T, Mr. William Black, advocate, do transfer the sum of five hundred Pound Sterling of the capital found of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and y® Indies, Unto John Earl of Tullibardine, principal secre- tarie of the Kingdom of Scotland, &. Don at Edinburgh this four and twentys of July, Anno domini 1697, before these witness—David Lord Ruthven and And. Teuchler, writter hereof. “Wm. Buack.” “ RUTHVEN, witness. “ AnD. TEUCHLER, witness.” “Wee, John Earl of Tullibardine, principal Secretarie of State for the Kingdom of Scotland, doe hereby accept of the above-mentioned share of stock, transferred to us in manner above written, and doe subject us to the laws, ordinances, and constitutions of the said Comp'*. This don at Edint- the day, month, year, as above, before these witnes, David Lord Ruthven and And. Teuchler, writer hereof. “ TULLIBARDINE.” “ RUTHVEN, witness. « Anp. TEUCHLER, witness.” Some of the books record the allocation of the equivalent fund paid under the treaty of union among the holders of the stock. One of these contains receipts from the persons to whom the certificates for equivalent money were delivered, thus— XXVili PREFACE. 500 Sir Alexander Forbes of Talquhon, arrested, &c., as 232 | 17 | 14 p. arrestment book, letter SS. The certificat delivered to John Gordon, Writer in Edin’ having right by assignation, and a passing from the arrestment. Jo. GORDON. This book is a sort of record of the fate and fortunes of the subscribers. In many instances the certificate is taken by assignees, in others by successors, in not a few by arresting creditors. It is only in a com- paratively small number of cases that the party who signed the subserip- tion book in 1696 signs the receipt for the equivalent certificate in 1707. The book commences on 12th August 1707, and ends in January 1709. The sums allocated from the equivalent vary in proportional amount, being sometimes £60, 8s. per cent., in other cases £53, 11s. 24d., and in others £46, lls. 5d. The difference arose from the varying extent to which the later calls of small per centages already alluded to had been re- sponded to, the £60, 8s. per cent. being the amount claimable by those who, having paid up all calls, were creditors, by cash payments and interest, to this extent. The method of booking the claims on the equivalent has been by debiting first the 75 per cent. remaining after the first payment of a quarter of the subscription, and the equivalent, and setting against the collective sum the small payments, the interest, and the subscribed stock. Thus, the former side of an account for £100 stock stands thus— Peter Murdoch, merchant in Glasgow, his account of debt standing out—Dr. To his account current, ‘ é ; : : Ly E76 Se To the equivalent, ; ; , L ‘ ; : 60 8 0O £135 8 0 PREFACE. XXIX The other side of the account stands thus— 1699, May 10. By cash for the 7% p. ct., ’ : et. ee OT, O » Sept. 14. By ditto for the 5 p. ct., payed at Glasgow the 28th July last, Day Oe, O 1704, July 7. By ditto for the 1st and 2d 23 p. ct. ae 0 By account of interest, ; : Oe UC TAN nN By capital for his subscription, : = OO) Cah @ £135 8 0 Among these volumes there is distinct evidence of the Company's design to issue bank notes, of the method in which they had intended to proceed, and of the extent to which they actually followed out their plan. The copperplate from which they were to be printed fell out of one of the books while the editor was inspecting them. An impression of it is here inserted. eA tsa . ee, Oi . PP Sa Clan gating, [rte Comparry ops oS et (rang fo oS Sal eC XXX PREFACE. Books are extant which, like check-books, contain quantities of these blank securities. In one, which appears to have been just begun to, a few of them are filled up, ready for use, but not signed—the blank for the payee’s name is in all cases filled up with “Mr. James Dun- lop. the custom still followed in check-books, to be cut through, so that the ” The cypher near the inner edge was intended, according to margin might be preserved as a record of the note, and a tally. From the margins so remaining, we see the actual number and several amounts of the notes cut out of this particular book. Fifty-four were issued for £100, a hundred for £50, and two notes for £20 had been made, but not cut out. The ordinary books would be sufficient to prove that these notes were issued to the extent of several thousands of pounds. Thus, in the general trading ledger there occurs—“ James Balfour, merchant, Edinburgh, to cash delivered him in Company’s notes, £1000.” In this ledger the cashiers of the Company in various towns are debited with Company’s notes for the purpose of circulation; of these John Peddie, the cashier in Glasgow, receives £5000; Thomas Burnett, in Aberdeen, £2000 ; Alexander Robertson, in Dundee, £1500; and John Reid, in Dumfries, £1000. Another book, however—the cash ledger—not only shows us the probable amount of notes actually issued, but proves that the issue was intended to be systematic and on a graduated scale, Separate accounts are there. opened—one for “the Company’s hundred pound bills,” another for their fifty, a third for their twenty, a fourth for their ten, and, lastly, one for their five pound bills. The respective amounts issued appear to have been—of the one hundred, £5,400; of the fifty, £4,100; of the twenty, £1700; of the ten, £310; and of the five, £575. A few invoices of the cargoes of the vessels sent to the Colony, lying among the miscellaneous papers, afford, in connexion with the extracts PREFACE. XXX1 already referred to from the Minutes of the Committee of Improvements, an idea of the export trade proposed to be carried on: by the Company. It appears to have consisted chiefly of hardwares in the shape of tools, furniture, building materials, and weapons, and partly of woven fabrics and other articles adapted to clothing and personal decoration. The invoice of the St. Andrew, Captain Pennycook’s vessel, begins with an enumeration of iron work in bulk, including 252 felling axes, 243 iron wedges, 818 gads, 63 splitting knives, and 8 smiths studies. This is followed by 12 barrels of garron nails ; locks in 3 barrels ; coopers and carpenters tools in 4 barrels ; shoes in 2 boxes, 8 butts, 5 large hogsheads and 20 large barrels ; stockings in 3 baled boxes; “tycken” in 4 bales; linen in sundry bales—a long and varied enumeration ; striped muslin and neckcloths in pieces; serges in 2 baled boxes ; coopers and carpenters tools in 2 barrels; fusils or guns in 16 large boxes ; pistols in 4 boxes; saws in 3 boxes; combs in 3 boxes ; knives in 3 boxes ; thread buttons and thread stockings in 1 box; flint-stones in 1 barrel ; swords and knives in 5 boxes; pattertaches in 2 boxes ; tortoise _ knives in 1 barrel; slippers in 3 boxes ; wommels in 1 box ; hats in 4 boxes ; paper in 14 bales; tobacco pipes in 29 barrels; filling nails in 4 barrels; and a box containing quadrants and other instruments. There are besides all these classified packages, some containing miscellaneous goods, including thread, needles, smoothing irons, horn spoons and hunting horns. The whole is invoiced at £4006, 0s. 1d. So far as the Editor is aware, these business books have not been turned to use in any work bearing on the history of the Darien Company, nor has even their existence been referred to. The Miscellaneous Papers have been noticed in Dalrymple’s Memoirs, and Laing’s History of Scot- land ; and have been more fully cited by Dr. M‘Crie in his edition of the “ Memoirs of William Veitch and George Bryson, written by themselves.” 4 OR in RR Co Fed Rae | Mook a eat Ti ata i 3 Bs A ie PREFACE. : P. in Ronn! the papers selected for the shai volume, th graphy of the ies ea not be surprised to find a man Ds name in more than one way. J. H. BUR A THE DARIEN PAPERS. I—LETTERS FROM WILLIAM PATERSON TO THE LORD PROVOST OF EDINBURGH.* My Lorp, London the 4th of July 1695. The Gentlemen here, by last post, sent some of their thoughts of the Act of Parliament, and yesterday received yours of the 27th ultimo, and are of opinion that there are severall Preliminaries of the greatest consequence to be settled as previous to any proceedings ; The matter of it self is of the highest consequence, and nothing but prudent management can bring it to bear ; wherefore the principall designs thereof ought only to be discovered by their executions. Therefore this matter ought first to be concerted in a Meeting in London about the latter end of October or the beginning of November, where most of the persons named in the Act ought to be present, and doubtless some weekes, if not months, will be spent before the foundation of our Proceedings can be laid as they ought, and they may from thence ad- journe to Edinburgh in the Spring following. And as to the Quantity of the Stock, They think of Three hundred and Sixty Thousand Pounds, whereof the half being 180,000 >. will be for Scotland, so that People may have notice * From copies—apparently official—in the Miscellaneous Collection. It will be seen that Paterson addresses the Lord Provost as the representative of the Scottish portion of the Directors appointed by the Act; and that the last Letter of the series, though it had been directed to the Lord Provost, is addressed immediately to the Directors. The Address on the back of this, and of the Letters which follow it, is, “‘ For the Right Honourable Sir Robert Cheesley, Lord Provost of Edinburgh.” A 2 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1695. enough to prepare their money ; and as for Reasons we ought to give none, but that it is a Fund for the Affrican and Indian Company ; For if we are not able to raise the Fund by our Reputation, we shall hardly do it by our Reasons. The Gentlemen here are extremely satisfyed that they are joyned with so excellent Persons, and doubt not, by their advice and assistance, to begin and carry on this undertaking to the honour and profit of themselves and the Nation. In a post or two the Gentlemen intend to be more full in expressing what they judge necessary to be dispatched before the meeting of the Corporation, as also of the way of making it in the most satisfactory manner. They think this Company can not be managed by Correspondence alone like some sort of Trades, but most by Councel and conversation ; and therefore intreats that this Society may be reckon’d one intire body, and not of several interferring parts and interests ; And assure your LoP and the rest of the Gent" that nothing shall be wanting on their part to the pro- moting a correspondence needfull for carrying on so great an undertaking, which is all at present from, My Lorp, your Lo?’s obedient servant, Wma. PaTERsoN. Please direct yours to Mr. Foulis as formerly. My Lorp, London 9th of July 1695. The 4th instant, by order of the Gent™ here, I gave something in return to your LoP’s of the 27th ultimo, but want of time then occasioned” them to be -briefe, and to take this opportunity to enlarge; And, in the first place, they think that the Settlement of the Constitution of this Company being designed for Posterity, there needs the greater Caution in their first setting out ; wherefore it will be needfull. that as great a Number as possible of the Gent" named in the Act should meet, and sedately and maturely deliberate and settle the Constitutions of the Company, before any other steps be taken, and that cannot sute with the Gentlemen here before the beginning of November or thereabouts ; and its needfull the first Meeting _ Should be in London, because without the advice and assistance of some Gen- tlemen here it will not be possible to lay the foundation as it ought, either as to Councel pr money ; And they thinke also that we ought to keep private and 1695. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 3 close for some months that no occasion may be given for the Parliamt of England directly or indirectly to take notice of it in the ensueing Session, which might be of ill consequence, and especially since a great many considerable persons are already allarum’d at it. Besides all this, the Parliamt of Scot- land have given the Kingdom of Scotland till the first of August come Twelve month to come in for half the Stock, which ought to induce us to make what private Preparations we can, but not to think of appearing in publick till within three or four months of that time ; For if we should lay Bookes open in Scotland for six or eight months or a year together, we should become ridiculous at home and abroad, and for that we have many Instances here in England, where, when the Parliament gives a long day for money, that Fund has hardly ever success ; and where the dayes are short, they seldom ever fail. The Bank of England had but six weekes time from the opening of the Bookes, and was finished in nine dayes ; and in all Subscriptions here it’s al- wayes limited to a short day ; For if a thing goe not on with the first heat, the raising of a Fund seldom or never succeeds, the Multitude being comonly ledd more by example than Reason. Besides, if we take care to publish our Subscriptions, and the Termes of it, sufficiently through the Kingdom for three or four months, none will have reason to complain, and every man will have time enough to enter, unless it be full sooner. Thus they think, that if good and solid preparations be made, the Subscriptions may be time enough begun about the beginning of April next, and then hope it will soon be full ; They hope, all things considered, that this, as it’s designed, is one of the most beneficial and best-grounded pieces of Trade at this day in Christendom, and we must engage some of the best heads and purses for Trade in Europe therein, or we can never do it as it ought to be. We ought not to think that ever we can bring an Indian business to bear from Scotland by only apeing the English and Dutch. But we may be sure, should we only settle some little Colony or Planta- tion, and send some Ships, They would looke upon them as Interlopers, and all agree to discourage and crush us to pieces ; But it must be from some ex- treame defects in their management of Trade, and in some discovery’s and advantages, that we have more than they, that must give opportunity to our Rise. Wherefore whatever is considerable ought to be reserved till the execu- tion, for, should we disclose our Designs before, they would no more be ours but their’s and other People’s. The French King hath bestowed many Mil- 4 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1695. lions of Crowns in promoting Forraign trade, but that being only a sort of cold apeing or imitating the English and Dutch, it’s come to little or nothing. The King of Denmarke has been at more than Five hundred Thousand Pounds sterling expence in fifteen or sixteen Years about promoting of an Indian and Affrican Trade ; but being undertaken by the same sort of management and disposition, He has had little returns but what he has had by several bar- barous Robbery’s and Piracys committed in the East and West Indias. The Elector of Brandenburgh hath also expended about four or five hundred Thousand Pounds sterling in sixteen or eighteen years, and has hardly saved Ten per Cent. of his Principall. And we ought to expect no better success if our Designs be not well grounded and prudently managed. But to conclude. There are remarkable occurrences at this time, and many Disadvantages our Neighbours ly under, and a considerable measure of the Genius of Trade and improvements seemes to incline to Scotland, to give them a faculty and ineli- nation to gain some advantages for themselves and Posterity, all which seem to be Harbingers of, and to portend glorious Success. Above all, it’s needfull for Us to make no distinction of Partys in this great and noble Undertaking, but that of whatever Nation or Religion a man be (if one of us) he ought to be looked upon to be of the same Interest and Inclination. For we must not act apart in any thing, but in a firm and united body, and distinct from all other Interests whatsoever. So hoping that Almighty God, who at this time seemes to have fitted so many able Instruments both of our own Nation and others, and given us such opportunitys as perhaps others have not, will perfect the begun worke ; and make some use of Scotland also to visit those dark places of the Earth, whose habitations are full of Cruelty. I am, My Lorp, your LoP’s ready servant, Wu. Paterson. My Lorp, London 6th of August 1695. Since yours of the 27th of June we have had none from you, and wonder we have not er this an Authentick Coppy of the Act as it past the Seals, as also some printed Coppies thereof. And tho’ we doubt not of the Gentlemen’s care in this matter, yet we hoped to have had something more by way of Letter since your last ; The life of all Commerce depends upon a punctual 1695. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 5 Correspondence, and as we shall not fail at any time to return our thoughts upon your Demands, so we hope You will keep up to the exactness of Corre- spondence on your part. If a Coppy of the Act as it past the Seal, as also some Coppies printed, be not dispatched before this comes to hand, we desire you to send them with all convenient speed, because now they begin to be much wanted here among our Friends. We also desire you would be pleased to consult the Heraulds about what we shall have for our armes, and conse- quently for our Seal, and send us up such a Project thereof as you approve of, and we shall return you our Judgement, that so that matter may be agreed upon; For it will be needfull to have our Seal made ready as soon as pos- sile: So expecting further from you, This is all at present, by order of the Gentlemen here, from, My Lor», your Lordship’s humble servant, Wu. Paterson. According to order we write and direct what concerns the Company to your Lop. My Lozp, London 15th of August 1695. Yours of the 8th instant we received Yesterday, and shall prepare for a general meeting of the Corporation in October or November next, to which there must come three at least of the persons named in the Act of Parliament from you; For there are two misnamed in the Act, Mr. Smith being called John instead of James, and Mounsr. Cohen D’Azevedo’s name is likewise mistaken, so that three of your number will be needfull to make our number eleven, which is the majority of the persons named in the Act, untill the mis- takes of those Gentlemen’s names be rectified by the Majority of the persons named in the Act of Parliament. We are much surprized to see some of the printed Acts of Parliament in the hands of some who are no very well-wishers to Us, before we who are concerned can have them ; And we now see that we have not hitherto had a perfect Coppy thereof. We pray therefore that for the future, we may by every Post have what may but seem to concern us, worth any notice. And if it be not sent before, we desire a Coppy of the Bank- Act that was so surreptitiously gained, and may be a great prejudice, but is never like to be of any matter of good, neither to us nor those who have it. 6 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1695. You seem in your last to intimate as if but one of your number should come for London, which makes us repeate it again, that unless three at least of your number and all ours be present, which will make the Majority of the whole, We can not proceed in any thing. We wrote to you the 6th of August instant, and expect your answer on Monday next.—I am, My Lorp, your loP’® most humble Serv‘ Wm. Paterson. ie My Lorp, _ London the 3d of September 1695. Yours of the 24th ultimo is come to hand, by which we see your singular care in keeping our correspondence whilst others concerned are absent. Our business here hath taken more aire than we expected so soon ; and what was a reason for us before to delay our business for some time, proves now an argument for us to hasten it, because it is now as publick as it can well be; and our Politicians here seem inclined rather to endeavour that England should follow our example as much as may be in encourageing Forreign Trade, than to thinke of discourageing us, who if blest with prudent manadgement have designed one of the least involved and freest fundations of Commerce that hath been anywhere proposed. And since the People here are already as much awaken’d as they are like to be, it becomes us to strike whilst the Iron is hott, and hasten our pace which now will be of advantage to our Proposal, should it meet with opposition or not ; wherefore, it’s needfull that the persons to be deputed from you may be dispatcht with all expedition that as-soon as may be we may havea Majority of the Corporation here in order to proceed upon business. It’s also absolutely necessary that you would with all expedition gett the Act of Parliament past the Seals lett the Charge be less or more of the several Coppies to be signed by my Lord Register. We can have attested Coppies at any time, but the passing the Seal is of another nature. For altho’ it be of no consequence, if it never pass the Seal, yet some who are apt to be frighted at Shadowes will be ready to make some thing of it: We desire you would also buy and send us all the Acts of Parliament past since the last of K. Ch. the 2d., as also any other Law bookes that may be needfull, for we have none here but the Acts from K. Ja. the First by Sir Thomas Murray ; it being needfull for us to have a particular regard to the Lawes of Scotland in our Settlement in so far as they may not interfere with the general Principles of 1695. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 7 Trade and also to know wherein they do. We desire also a project for a Seal as soon as possible and for the expense you are att, please to draw upon Mr. Foulis which upon advice from you shall be complyed with. My Letters will come to hand if directed for me at the Orphan’s Fund in London, or for me in London.—I am, My Lorp, your Lo?’s most humble serv* Wm. PaTERson. It is not fitt for us to write the Reasons for passing the Seal and therefore it ought not be delayed a day longer. My Lorp, London the 5th of September 1695. This day all the persons here named in the Act mett, and have agreed for the future to meet every Thursday, our affaire having now taken so much aire, that each succeeding day may reasonably produce new matter worth our notice. Wherefore We recommend to your Lo?’ care that our correspon- dence may be so concerted as to have an account of any matterial occur- rences with you every Wednesday at least : and for the reasons mentioned in my last, all the Gentlemen here do seriously press it, that three at least of your number may come hither with all reasonable expedition to make us a majority, that no time be lost ; and care shall be taken for reimbursing all their necessary charges: So hoping that your next will give us an account of the Act’s being pass’d the Seals (this being all att present by order of the Gentlemen) I am My Lorp, your Lo?’s most humble servant, Wa. Paterson. My Lorp, London 19th of September 1695. Yours of the 10th instant came in due time ; and we find ourselves dayly more and more obliged by the Constitution of affairs to press the coming of those persons who shall be deputed from you, the Reasons still increasing for us to gett our business here dispatched before the approaching Sessions of Parliamt : Wherefore we intreat you to hasten their Departure as a matter of the greatest moment, that we may have a Majority together to proceed 8 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1695. upon business. We would not press it so much, if the Reasons did not re- quire it, and we doubt not but the Gentlemen in Scotland will be as diligent herein as the matter requires ; and being highly pleased with your Lordships extraordinary care and industry herein, by order of the Gentlemen here con- cerned I remain, My Lorp, your LoP’s most humble servant, Wm. Paterson. GENTLEMEN, London 15th of Oct 1695. We have not had any account of your proceedings for several posts save what we had from the publick newes, untill yesterday we had one from my Lord Beilhaven and another from Mr. Balfour, by which we still see your backwardness in sending some of your number to make a Majority here. We wonder that some of you should still seem to be of opinion that this matter may be transacted by Correspondence, when it’s plain by the Act that things must be transacted by the Majority of persons present, and that it’s morally impossible it can be done otherwise either in the needful Dispatch or the nature of the thing. We wonder that any of you should still expect Reasons for our not coming to Scotland, after we have said so much of it im our former Letters, and that it’s impossible to lay the fundation any where but here. We have already press’d you to hasten by our former Letters more than modesty would admitt, and we must now tell you that if you neglect coming up but a few dayes after this comes to hand, it will endanger the loss of the whole matter ; and for the Reasons, it’s neither fitt nor safe for us to write ; we therefore desire that the persons appointed would come, if possible by post, that they may be here by the first of November at furthest. So hopeing to hear from you and of your parting for London by the very next, we have sent a Coppy of this to each of the three Gentlemen who we under- stand are named to come for London.—I am, GENTLEMEN, your most humble servant, Wm. PATERson. Postscript.—The Gentlemen concerned here are sory to use this way of expressing themselves, but it’s only the small effect of what they have hitherto written, as also the danger that the whole undertaking is in, that presses them. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. g IL—MINUTES AND ABSTRACTS OF PROCEEDINGS. An Apsrract of the Procerpines of the Court of Directors of the Company of ScotnanD Trading to Africa and the Indies com- mencing the 15th Day of June and ending the Twenty first day of July 1696.* 15th. The Court having under consideration severall ways and means pro- posed for accomodating and making the Receipts and Payments of this Com- pany more easie, safe, and convenient to all Parties* concerned, came to the Resolution which by order of Court was printed and published the said 15th of June, relating to the same, and was the same day approved of by the Council-General. 18th. A Copper-Plate for printing the Current Bills of this Company was given in Charge to the Committee of Treasury to be kept under Lock and key with the Cash, who were ordered at the same time to take care that no Coppies or Blank Bills should be cast off or printed, but in presence of Three at least of the said Committee of Treasury, who were further directed to take all such Blanks also into their special care as if the same were Real Money. Then the Court ordered Instructions to be drawn for transacting all matters relating to the Subscriptions in England ; As also Instructions for some fitt Persons whom the Court had then in view to goe abroad for providing of ships for the use of this Company. 23d. Pursuant to which Order The said several Instructions were prepared, read, considered, and approved of in Court, and dispatched accordingly ; after having chosen Alexander Stevenson Merchant in Edinburgh and James Gib- son Merchant in Glasgow Two Members of the Council-General of this Com- pany, as fitt Persons to goe beyond Sea for that effect. 26th. Then the Court having under consideration the manner of rendering the Company’s Current-Bills usefull, so as to answer the proposed end in * From a Scroll in the Miscellaneous Collection, titled as above. B 10 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. accommodating such as have any dealing with the Company, Ordered that fitt persons should be appointed at Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, &c. to be Cashiers to the Company in these Towns who should have certain Numbers of the Company’s Bills lodged in their hands to answer and serve the Com- pany’s Correspondences in those Parts and the several next adjacent Places. And the putting thereof in Execution was referred to the Committee of Trea- sury, and the same was done accordingly. 9th of July. It was ordered That the Committee of Treasury do on every Court day, lay before the Court of Directors an Abstract or Account in Writing of all such Sum or Sums of the said Bills as are, or shall by them be delivered out in manner aforesaid, and also what part of the said Bills are or shall from time to time be returned into their hands. Then the Court considering that the nature and course of the Company’s Trade will at all times hereafter as well as now require considerable sums of Money to be either dead by them or in their demand, came to the Resolu- tion which by Order of Court was printed and published the said 9th day of July instant, for the better Improvement of the Company’s Stock, as well as for the greater ease of the several Proprietors therein concerned. Then to the end that no Person within this Kingdom may hereafter have any pretence to complain of being excluded or debarred from being in due time concerned in this Company, as well as to leave no ground of cayilling about any limited time for Subscriptions; The Court came to the further Resolution relative to that matter which by Order of the said Court was also Printed and Published the said 9th day of July instant. 21st. Upon a Representation made to the Court for payment of the several Prices agreed upon for the Two Houses in Mill’s-Square lately Purchased for the Company’s use from Sir Alexander Mackenzie of Broomhill and John Kidington Writer in Edinburgh ; Orders were given to the Committee of Trea- sury to pay or cause pay the respective Sums of 395 lib. 17s. 94d. sterling to the said John Eidington and 455 lib. 11s. sterling to the said Sir Alexander Mackenzie as the respective prices of the said Two Houses bought from them as aforesaid. Then the Court having under consideration How that the affairs of the Company abroad required an Addition of some more Directors to the number of these already chosen ; They have resolved to choose two directors more by 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 11 scroll and scrutiny on thursday the twentyeth day of August next, and to the end all persons concerned may have their thoughts of fit persons to be then chosen as aforesaid, all the directors are ordered to have due intimation thereof. Fartuer Asstract of the ProcEEDINGS of the Court oF DirEcTors.* 29th. The Committee of Forreign Trade reported to the Court of Direc- tors several Resolutions of that Committee concerning the designs, Settlements and Navigation of this Company ; which being severally read and considered were approved of by the Court. 31st. The Court upon reassuming the consideration of the said several Resolutions of the Committee of Forreign Trade have resolved that the said Resolutions here underwritten be laid before the Council-General at their next meeting ; which Resolutions are as followeth. The said Committee of Forreign Trade upon viewing and perusing of several Manuscript-Books Journals Reckonings exact*illuminated Mapps and other Papers of Discovery in Africa and the East and West Indies produced by Mr. Paterson ; as also upon hearing and examining several Designs and Schemes. of Trade and discovery by him proposed.— Resolved that it is the Opinion of this Committee that the said Mr. Pater- son hath with much pains and expense Procured several Discoveries of places of Trade and Settlement which if duely prosecuted may prove exceeding bene- ficial to this Company.— Resolved that it is the Opinion of this Committee that some particular Discoveries of the greatest moment to the designs of this Company ought to be committed to Writing and seall’d by Mr. Paterson and not open’d but by special order of the Court of Directors And that only when the affairs of this Company shall of necessity require the same.— Resolved that Mr. Paterson be desired to lodge such papers as shall by * From a scroll in the Miscellaneous Collection. The year and month are not given; the MS. stands as a continuation of the Minute beginning 19th August; but the substance of this minute shows it to be of an earlier date. 12 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. him be seall’d as aforesaid together with his said Manuscript-Books, Journals, Reckonings, Mapps, Schemes and Discoveries relating to this Undertaking in the hands of this Committee for the use of the said Company. Then the said Committee having under consideration several convenient places for trade and settlement which do equally present.— Resolved that a Settlement or Settlements be made with all convenient speed upon some Island River or place in Africa or the Indies or both for Establishing and promoting the Trade and Navigation of this Company. After which the Committee came to several Resolutions about Ships, Cargoes Stores and Equipages needfull for Africa and the East and West Indies, but adjourned the determination of the particular voyages and places of settlement untill these needfull Equipages be prepared. The said Committee at their next meeting upon reading their own former resolutions and upon reviewing of the several Manuscript-Books, Journals, Reckonings, exact illuminated Mapps and other Papers therein mention’d now in Custody of Mr. Paterson and presented by him to the Company’s use.— Resolved that it is the Opinion of this Committee,—That the said Mr. Paterson hath not only been at a vaste Charge of money in making and pro- curing those Discoveries of Trade; but likewayes made considerable steps and progresses in several Negotiations and Agreements concerning Trade and Commerce with Forreigners, which if duely prosecuted may be of certain and great advantage to this Company.— Resolved that it is the opinion of this Committee that Mr. Paterson with two or more other Directors be deputed and sent abroad to engage such forreign Merchants and others as may be needfull to be concerned in this Company. As also to make and conclude such negotiations and agreements as may be found beneficial to the trade thereof. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. — 13 An Asstract of the Proceepines of the Court of Directors of the Company of ScornanD trading to Africa and the Indies from the 3d day of August 1696 to the day of November following.* Aug. 19th. Pursuant to a former Resolution The Court having under con- sideration the matter of deputing three or four of their own number to nego- tiat and transact the Company’s affairs beyond the seas.— Resolved That if Three Directors only be sent as aforesaid, They shall be allowed for their ordinary expenses at the rate of One Hundred pounds sterg % month among them; and if four Directors be deputed as aforesaid, that they shall be allowed four pounds ster’ p diem during their continow- ing abroad about the Company’s service. 20th. Pursuant a Resolution of Court of the 21st of July last The Court proceeded to choose and assume 2 Directors more to the number of those already chosen ; And the election by scroll and scrutiny fell upon Sir John Shaw of Greenock and Robert Watson merchant in Edinr- There was Presented Read and Considered in Court the Draught of an intended Commission for such Directors of the Company as were then to be Deputed to negotiat the Company’s Affairs beyond the seas ; Which being approved of The Company’s Secretary was ordered to translate the same into Latin with all convenient speed. Pursuant to an Act of the Council-General of the 3d of Aug*. the Court finding that (excepting William Paterson James Smyth James Campbell Daniel Lodge and Joseph Cohen D’Azevedo for the sum of £15000 ster's, being £3000 ster! to each) the several persons Subscribers of the sum of 300000 lib. ster'S to the Joint stock of this Company at London have not paid in the first fourth part of their respective subscriptions ; Therefore The said Court of Directors have accordingly vested in themselves for the use of the said Company the remaining Sum of 285000 lib. ster’ of the Sub- scriptions aforesaid. 21s¢ Ordered That the Company’s Cashier receive all payments tendered to him from any of the Subscribers in Scotland as formerly with special * From a Scroll in the Miscellaneous Collection, titled as above. 14 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. regard to the respective dates of all such payments to the end there may be in due time a retention made of interest from the first of June last by way of Discompt till the said respective days of payment. The Court agreed That Messrs. Francis Stratford sen‘. and jun". merchants in Hamburgh should be appointed the Company’s correspondents in those parts. A Letter was written to the Company’s correspondent in London intimating that the English subscriptions were invested in the Court of Directors as aforesaid. : Sir John Swinton and Mr. Lodge were appointed to oversee the Compy’ Books of accompts and to Direct in cases of any difficulty. Upon a representation made on behalf of John Monro Doctor of Medicin with relation to his knowledge experience and usefullness in the execution of — several matters that must concern the interest and service of this Company; The said Dr. Monro was call’d in and Recommended by the Court of Direc- tors to the Committee of Foreign Trade. Sept”. 9th. The Court Reassuming the consideration of choosing and appoint- ing four Directors for going beyond seas upon special affairs of this Company ; The election fell upon Lieut. Colonel John Erskine, John Haldan of Glen- eagles, Wm. Paterson, and James Smyth. Sept”. 11th. Sir John Shaw, and Robert Watson, were added to the Commit- tee of Forreign Trade. Upon a Motion for Reassuming the consideration of Mr. Paterson’s ex- penses in carrying on the principal designs of this Company. The same was Recommitted to the particular Committee formerly appointed to consider of that matter, and Mr. Francis Montgomery of Giffen, Wm. Hay of Drummeiler, Sir Francis Scott of Thirlestane, and Sir John Shaw of Greenock, were added to the said Committee ; and were ordered upon discoursing fully with Mr. Paterson on the subject matter to them committed, to report their opinion therein to the Court. Upon a representation made in Court on behalf of Mr. Robert Cragg of London merchant, signifying his capacity and willingness to serve this Com- pany particularly with relation to the intended improvements thereof, in making of Salt and carrying on the Fishery trade ; He was by Letter from the Court of Directors encouraged to repair hither. 12th. There was Presented and read in Court a draught of an intended 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 15 Act of Parliament, in favours of this Company, for making Improvements in Salt and for encouraging Fisheries; And was recommended to the further consideration of Mr. Hugh Dalrymple &c. And desired to consult his Majesties “advocat therein. 14th. Resolved that during the time of Session The Court do meet on the respective Mondays of every weeke. Upon a representation made in Court from and on behalf of the Bank, signi- ying That they desired to have a meeting with some of the Directors of this Company who may be appointed for that effect ; A Committee was appointed accordingly and ordered to report the result of their conference to the Court. 16th. Then the Commissions and Instructions for the Directors appointed to go beyond sea were severally read, and the names of those already chosen for that purpose were ordered to be inserted, and the Commissions to bear date as from the said day. A Committee was appointed to consider of sutable sallaries to the Officers and Servants of this Company in order to ripen it for the Court of Directors. 17th. The same Committee was Ordered to prepare some Rules and Ordinances to be observed by all officers and servants imployed in the Com- pany’s service. 23d. The Court Established three Assistants to the Chief Accomptant, viz. Robert Douglass with the yearly sallary of Eighty Pounds sterlz, Andrew _Teuchler with the yearly sallary of Sixty pounds ster’ and John Symmer with the yearly sallary of Thirty five pounds ster's. 26th. John Dickson was established as Clerk and accomptant to the Com- mittee of Improvements with the yearly sallary of Fifty pounds ster's. 28th. The Court established James Lyell as Ware and Store-house keeper with the yearly sallary of Seventy pounds sterlg. John Thomson and Andrew Johnston as Clerks with the yearly sallary of 30 lib. ster's each ; Charles Auchmouty house-keeper with the yearly sallary of 15 lib. sterlg and W™- Hopkirk as messenger with the yearly sallary of Ten pounds ster'g. Oct’. 1st. A Committee was appointed to take a further review of all the former Establishments of Servants, with special regard to their Qualifications in the execution of their respective offices ; And to consider whether that expense may not in any measure be abridged by contracting the number of Officers or otherways ; And to report accordingly. 16 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. The Court agreed upon the manner of providing the several sorts of provi- sions necessary for the intended equipages of this Company. 2d. A Committee was appointed to examin and inspect the state of the Company’s cash ; And the Committee of Treasury was ordered to sign no more warrants to the Cashier for Lending money to any of the Proprietors of this Joint-stock upon the credit of their respective shares therein without special order from the Court of Directors concerning the same. The Court having under consideration the inconveniences and dammages that may arise to the Company’s service by the negligence or non-ettendaaie of their several Officers and servants in their respective stations ;— Ordered That all Officers Clerks and other Servants of this Company keep constant hours of attendance in their respective Offices from Eight to Twelve a clock in the forenoon and from two to six in the afternoon; And at such further hours as the exigency of the Company’s affairs may happen to require. Ordered that the Chief Cashier or his Assistant do every night before enc go from the Office make up and ballance the Company’s Cash. Ordered that all Books belonging to the Company be kept in the Office, and that none be taken out of the office without leave from the Directors. Ordered that the Company’s house-keeper take care to lock up the doors every night, and open them every morning before Hight a clock. Ordered that the Company’s Ware and Store-house keeper keep exact and regular accompts of all such Stores and Goods as shall from time to time be delivered and committed to his care, and deliver none out but by order of the Court of Directors or Committee, and take receipts for every parcel delivered by him as aforesaid. Ordered that none of the said Officers Clerks or Servants demand or take directly or indirectly any fee or perquisite in the execution of their several offices other than the respective Sallaries and fees established or to be estab- lished and appointed for them by the Court of Directors, and that under the penalty of deprivations of their respective offices. Ordered that none of the said Inferior Officers or Clerks go out of Town without first acquainting some one or other of the standing Committees, or the Secretary, Cashier, or Accomptant in whose respective offices they sever- ally serve. 6th. Resolved that advertisements be published as by order of Court, 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 17 requiring all such proprietors in the Joint-stock of this Company as have not yet paid in the first fourth-part of their Subscriptions to pay the same to the Company’s Cashier before or about the term of Martinmas. Then the Court considering the great expense that Wm. Paterson one of the Directors of the said Company, has been at for several years past in making valuable discoveries of Commerce and Navigation to the Indies ; and he having delivered in several curious Manuscript Books Mapps Journals and other papers of Commerce relating thereto henceforth to be appropriat to the Com- pany’s use ; and having further evidenced his affection to his Native Countrey and this Company by relinquishing England and any profitable Establish- ments he had or might at present have in that Kingdom to his evident dammage and loss ;—Therefore The said Court of Directors have allowed the said Wm. Paterson to transfer and dispose of the Sum of fifteen thousand pounds ster'g of the Subscriptions now vested in this Court of Directors ; that is to say, of the eighty five thousand pounds of such English subscrip- tions as are not as yet disposed of by the said Court ; and to take and apply to his own proper use the first quarter payment thereof extending to the Sum of three thousand seven hundred and fifty pounds ster's- together also with the like further Sum of three thousand seven hundred and fifty pounds sters, being the first quarter payment of the Sums subscribed by him the said Wm. Paterson, and Messrs. James Smyth, Daniel Lodge, James Campbell, and Joseph Cohen D’Azevedo merchants in London, amounting in the whole to the Sum of seven thousand and five hundred pounds ster's. And further for his Merit in contriving the principal designs, and constancy in promoting the service of this Company, the said Court of Directors have Resolved to take into their further consideration what sutable Gratifications they will appoint for him out of the subsequent profites of their trade and propor- tionate the same to the success thereof. Resolved that the Resolution above written be laid before the Council- General of this Company, and that till then the same shall not be put in exe- cution nor take any effect. Oct". 8th. Upon further consideration of the intended Act for making salt of a new fashion. Resolved that the names of Sir John Shaw of Greenock, John Haldan of Gleneagles, Baillie George Clark, and Robert Watson, Directors of Cc 18 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. the Company, be insert therein as trustees for and on behalf of the said Company. 10th. Directions were sent to Messrs. Smyth and Campbell the Company’s Correspondents at London, to take the opportunity while the exchange was then so high, to discompt such of the Compy’s Cash as remained in their hands in Bank-bills, for reall species, to the best advantage, and to remitt the same with all convenient speed to Amsterdam, etc. : 22d. John Haldan of Gleneagles was fully instructed to examin the state of such of the Company’s Cash as was remitted to London, and upon due examination of the same to transmitt a perfect accompt thereof under the hands of the said Messrs. Smyth and Campbell to the Court, and with their assistance to remitt the full ballance thereof with all convenient speed to Amsterdam or Hamburgh as they shall find the exchange stand most for the Company’s advantage. Nov". 12th. The Committee formerly appointed to review and consider the Establishment and respective sallaries of the sevgral officers and servants of this Company was re-appointed to meet the next morning to examin and consider that matter fully, and directed to report their opinion to the Court at the next sitting thereof. Ordered that the Company’s Secretary prepare an Abstract of the proceed- ings of the said Court since the last Council-General to the said day, to be viewed and examined by the Directors the Munday following, in order to be laid before the first Council-General of this Company. Then the Company’s Secretary signifying, that pursuant to a former Reso- lution of Court, Mr. Paterson had delivered to him*for the Company’s use, several Manuscript Books, Journals, Reckonings, Mapps, together with some other Papers touching the principal designs of this Company, seal’d, in order to be deposited for safe custody as the said Court shall please to appoint ; Resolved that the said seal’d papers be further seal’d with the respective seals of my Lord Ruthven, Sir Francis Scott, Sir Archibald Mure, and John Drum- mond of Newton, which was done accordingly, and given in strict charge with the said Books and Mapps to the Company’s Secretary. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 19 MINUTES OF COMMITTEES. Edinburgh the 23d day of July 1696. Att the CommitTEr of Forrreicn TRapDE of the Company of ScoTLAND Trading to Africa and the Indies.* Present— Sir Francis Scott. William Paterson. Sir Arch¢- Mure. Daniel Lodge. Wm. Wardrop. Sir Francis Scott Chairman. Upon viewing and perusing of several Manuscript Books Journals and other Papers of Discovery in Africa and the East and West Indies produced by Mr. Paterson, as also upon hearing and examining several Designs and Schemes of Trade and Discovery by him proposed. Resolved that it is the Opinion of this Committee, that the said Mr. Pater- son hath with much pains and expense procured several discoveries of Places of Trade and settlement which if duely prosecuted may prove exceeding beneficial to this Company. Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that some particular Dis- coveries of the greatest moment to the Designs of this Company ought to be committed to Writing and Seal’d by Mr. Paterson, and not open’d but by special order of the Court of Directors, and that only when the affairs of the Company shall of necessity require the same. Resolved That Mr. Paterson be desired to lodge such Papers as shall by him be sealled as aforesaid, together with his said Manuscript Books, Journals, Schemes and Discoveries relating to this Undertaking in the hands of this Committee for the use of the said Company. Resolved that it is the Opinion of this Committee that the pains expence and dammage of the said Mr. Paterson in promoting the said Design and the means to enable and encourage him freely to bestow all his pains and time * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 20 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. hence-forward in prosecuting this Undertaking ought to be taken into con- sideration by the Company. Then the Committee having under consideration several convenient places for Trade and Settlement which do equally present.— "Resolved that a Settlement or Settlements be made with all convenient speed upon some Island River or place in Africa or the Indies or both for establishing and promoting the Trade and Navigation of this Company. After which the Committee came to several Resolutions about Ships, Cargos, Stores and Equipages needfull for Africa and the East and West Indies, and adjourned the determination of the particular voyages and places of Settle- ment untill those needfull Equipages be prepared. Francis Scorr, L.P.C. Edinburgh, the 28th Day of July 1696. Att the CommiTrTrs of Forreian Trape of the Company of Scorntanp Trading to Africa and the Indies.* Present—, Leut: Coll. Erskine. Wm. Paterson. Sir Francis Scott. William Wardrop. Daniel Lodge. Sir Arch? Mure. Sir Francis Scot Chairman. Upon reading the Resolutions of the former Committee and reviewing of the several Manuscript Books, Journals, Reckonings, exact illuminated Mapps and other Papers therin mention’d now in custody of Mr. Paterson, and pre- sented by him to the Company’s use. Resolved that it is the Opimion of this Committee that the said Mr. Pater- son hath not only been at a vaste Charge of money in making and procuring those Discoveries of Trade, but likewayes made considerable progresses in several Negotiations and Agreements concerning Trade and Commerce with Forreigners which if duly prosecuted may be of certain and great advantage to this Company. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. OT Resolved that it is the Opinion of this Committee that Mr. Paterson with two or more other Directors be deputed and sent abroad to engage such Forreign Merchants and others as may be needfull to be concerned in this Company, as also to make and conclude such negotiations and agreements as may be found beneficial to the Trade thereof. Francis Scort, .P.C. Edinburgh, the 22d of Augt- 1696. At the Committesz of Forreign Trabe of the Company of ScoTLanp Trading to Africa and the Indies.* Present— Drummelliar. Wm. Paterson. Sir Francis Scott. Wm. Woodrop. Lieut- Coll. Erskine. Daniel Lodge. Sir Francis Scott Chairman. Pursuant to an order of the last Court of Directors, Mr. John Munro Doctor of Medicine gave his attendance to the said Committee, and upon a full conference with him concerning his knowledge of such Provisions and — Medicaments as may be thought necessary for the intended Equipages of the said Company together with his readiness and Inclinations to serve the said Company.— — Resolved that the said Doctor Munro be appointed to act and officiate as Supervisor-General of all such Medicaments and Provisions as may be thought necessary for the intended Equipages of the said Company. Resolved that the said Doctor Munro be directed from and by this Com- mittee, to give such Instructions as in his discretion he shall thinke fitt, to John Baillie, Gideon Eliot, Hugh Paterson, and James Auchinleck, Chyrurgeon- Apothecaries in Edinburgh, for preparing such a fitt Quantity of good suffi- cient and Proper Medicaments, as may be judged necessary and proportionable to a number of men not exceeding Fifteen hundred or thereabouts, for the space of T'wo years. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1 tw THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. Resolved that the said Dr. Munro be directed in like manner to take par- ticular care also for providing all necessary instruments for the Chyrurgeons that are to be imployed in the service of the said Company, and report his proceedings in the Premises from time to time to this Committee. Ordered that the Company’s Secretary give to the said Doctor Munro a Coppy of the Invoys of Provisions already agreed upon by this Committee to be by him considered of ; and the said Dr. Munro is hereby ordered to report his Opinion concerning the same, together with his Proposals of the best and cheapest manner of providing such or any other Provisions as may be judged necessary for the purposes abovementioned. Ordered that the Company’s Secretary do sett at worke and’ imploy James Lindsay in coppying or transcribing such Books or Papers of this Company as he shall thinke fitt, and upon tryal of his Capacity to report to this Committee accordingly. Ordered that the Company’s Secretary prepare a Letter to be sent by this night’s Post from this Committee to Messrs. Francis Stratford Sent and Junt. Merchants at Hamburgh, advising them that the whole Court of Directors have agreed that they should be the Company’s Correspondents in those parts etc. and giving them Commission to draw upon Mr. James Smyth Merchant "in London for Five Thousand Pounds ster's for the said Company’s use. Ordered that the Company’s Secretary prepare an other Letter to be sent from this Committee to the said Mr. James Smyth advising him of the said Commission for Five Thousand Pounds ster'g together with a former for Four Thousand Rex Dollars. Francis Scorr, J.P.C. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 23 Edinburgh the 30th day of September 1696. Att a Joynt CommitTExr of Forrign TRADE and IMPROVEMENTS of the Company oF ScoTLanD Trading to Africa and the Indies.* Present— Sir Francis Scott. Wm. Paterson. Sir Arch’. Mure. James MacLurg. George Clark. Wm. Arbuckle. Robert Watson. John Corse. Daniel Lodge. Sir Francis Scott Chauman. Upon reading and reconsidering some former Resolutions of this Joint- Committee, the same were with some amendments together with other addi- tions finally agreed to as followeth. Ordered that the said Dr. Munro therein mentioned goe to Dundee, Montrose, Aberdeen, Inverness, Cathness and such other parts as he shall think fitt on that road, where after having informed himself particularly con- cerning the cheapest prices of good and sufficient beef for the Company’s use, as also concerning dry and barrelled Cod fish, he is desired to advise this Committee accordingly before he come to any determinate Resolution or bargain in either of the Premisses. Ordered that the said Doctor imploy and sett at worke Gun Smiths wher- ever he can find them to make as many Pistolls as they] undertake for, suteable to the Pattern given to the said Doctor by this Committee, And that at such rates as he can best agree with them for the Company’s Interest, providing the same exceed not seventeen or eighteen shillings ster's or thereabouts for each pair. Resolved that James Balfour do in his discretion buy as much wheate for the Company’s use as may be sufficient to make fifty tuns of course biskett, for the first spending, one hundred tuns of middle biskett for the next 300 Tuns of spending, and one hundred and fifty tuns of very fine biskett for the last Biskett. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 24 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. spending ; as also sixty tuns of the finest Flower, four hundred bolls of shill’d oats and stones of Candle. Resolved that John Drummond of Newton do in his discretion buy Two hundred Cowes for the Company’s use. Resolved that the said John Drummond and Baillie George Clark take care to provide fifteen tuns of the best Porke they can find in due time for the Company’s use. Resolved that the said George Clark together with Robert Watson, use their own discretion to provide two hundred oxen the best they can find, to be slaughtered at Leith or where else it may be most convenient, also Ten boiz of stall’d beef. Resolved that the said George Clark and Robert Watson take care to gett two thousand rheames of sortable paper, from thirty to fifty soles or there- abouts % rheame, upon the Company’s account ; as also ten tuns of Rorum half black half yellow, five tuns of strong Claret and four hogsheads of Flint stones. Resolved that the said George Clark and Robert Watson, take care to pro- vide twenty tuns of the best vinegar, twenty tuns of Brandie, twenty tuns of Pruins, twelve tuns of Spanish Salt, ten barrells of mustard-seed and dry cask for the Company’s use ; as also salt and wood-bound-cask for such beef pork and fish as is to be provided at home. Resolved that George Clerk and James MacLurg buy from Mr. Watson two thousand Pipe staves, and imploy Cowpers to make up the same in Iron-bound-Cask for the Company’s use. Resolved that Daniel Lodge take care to provide sixty tuns of good and sufficient stall’d Beef, seven tuns and a half of Sewet, ten tuns of Cheshire Cheese and ten tuns of Butter for the Company’s use. Resolved that the Persons deputed to goe beyond sea upon the Contig affairs, take care to provide the several other Provisions particularly mention’d in some former Resolutions of this Joynt-Committee, the eight day of Sep- tember instant. Francis Scort, /.P.C. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 25 Edinburgh the 20th day of October 1696.—Post Merediem. Att a Joynt-Committee of the three several StanDING CoMMITTEES of the Company of Scotitanp Trading to Africa and the Indies.* Present— Sir John Home. George Clark. Sir Francis Scott. Robt- Watson. Sir Patrick Scott. Daniel Lodge. Sir John Swynton. James Balfour. Gleneagles. James MacLurg. Sir John Home chosen Chairman. Upon reading over the Minutes of the last and penult Court of Directors Ordered that the Company’s Secretary take out an Extract of the late Act of Parliament for making Salt of a new fashion, paying the ordinary fees for the same ; and that he further prepare an Assignation and Disposition thereof to be signed by the Trustees named in the said Act, to and in favours of the Court of Directors for the use of the said Company.+ Ordered that the Company’s Chief Cashier receive hence-forward all pay- ments offered to him of any Sum or Sums due or to become due from any Proprietor in the Joynt-Stock of this Company whether in part or in whole and grant Receipts for all partial payments accordingly. Then there was read to the Committee a Letter from Mr. Paterson to Sir Francis Scott concerning Books, Papers, Servants, the Remittances of money etc. upon consideration of which together with the Resolution of the last Court of Directors concerning remittances, those of the Committee of Foreign Trade now present sign’d a warrant to Gawen Plummer to take and pay for all Foreign Bills which shall be brought to him for the Company’s use by any of the Directors thereof, providing the value of such Bills on the whole exceed not the Sum of Seven Thousand Pounds sterling, all to be made payable to himself for the use of the said Committee &c. Then the said Committee signed a further warrant to the said Cashier for * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. } The Act 1696, c. 44, passed on 12th October. D 26 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696 payment of Two Thousand Pounds sterling to Mr. Daniel Lodge to buy stall’d- beef, sewet, butter and cheese for the Company’s use. And the Committee of Treasury signed a warrant to the said Cashier for payment of any Sum or Sums not exceeding Five Thousand Pounds sterling, to the Committee of Improvements for buying goods and provisions within this Kingdom. Resolved that Capt. John Brown be sent beyond sea upon the Company's service, and that in the meantime he bespeake some discreet and experienced Boat-Swain, to goe along with him or follow soon after with the first con- veniency. Ordered that pursuant to this Resolution the Company’s Secretary do acquaint the said Capt: Brown thereof, to the end he may attend the next sitting of this Committee, and have a Recommendatory Letter to the Com- pany’s Deputees beyond sea. Resolved that it be recommended to Gleneagles and Mr. Smyth and Mr. Campbell, to secure and engage at London such proper seamen and others as they can find fitt for the Company’s Shipping and service, with special regard to Captain Henry Martyn in order to command one of the Company’s Ships. Ordered that all the Directors of this Company who are in Town be ae- quainted to meet on Thursday morning next, nine a clock, to give such further directions for Gleneagles Dispatches and other affairs of this Company as they shall then think fitt. Edinburgh, the 22d of October 1696. Att a Joynt-CommiTrEE of the several Sranpinc CommiTtezs of the Company or ScoTuanD to Africa and the Indies. Present— Drummeiler. George Clark. Sir Francis Scott. Robert Watson. Lord Justice Clerk. James MacLurg. Gleneagles. James Balfour. Daniel Lodge. Sir Francis Scott Chairman. The Minutes of the last Joynt Committee were read over, pursuant to 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 27 which the Company’s Secretary signify’d that he had taken out an Extract out of the Registers of Parliament, of the Act for making Salt of a new fashion, and had paid one hundred marks as the Registers Fees for the same, and that some thing more was expected by the Macers &c. The Secretary signify’d further that according to order he had prepared a Draught of an Assignation and Disposition of the said Act to be signed by the Trustees therein named, to and in favours of the Court of Directors and their Successors, for the use of the said Company, and the same was ordered to be written out fair to be signed by Gleneagles before his departure from this place. Then pursuant to order of last Committee Capt John Brown was called in, and upon further consideration of how far he might be usefull in assisting Gleneagles at London with relation to Mariners &c. ;— Resolved that the said Capt Brown do follow Gleneagles to London with all convenient speed, and in the mean time the said Capt Brown is hereby ordered to enquire for and find out two or three skillfull men fitt for Mates and Boatswains, to goe over to Hamburgh and agree with them at the sight of any two of the Directors. Ordered that the Committee of Improvements advance Twenty Pounds sterling to the said Capt Brown, to defray his necessary Charges to London &c. taking his Receipt to be accomptable for the same. Ordered that the said Committee of Improvements advance likewise such sum or sums as they in their discretion shall judge sutable, to such Mates Boatswains or others as are to be sent to Hamburgh on the Company’s service. Resolved that the Committee of Foreign Trade of this Company do write to the Deputees of the Court of Directors beyond sea, concerning the ship bought by Mr. Gibson at Amsterdam, that the same may be fitted up and dispatched hither for the transportation of Seamen &c. between this and Hamburgh. Then Mr. Lodge gave Gleneagles a particular Charge or Demand, on Messrs. James Smyth and James Campbell, for all the Company’s money that has been lodged in their hands, and the Draughts of two several Letters con- cerning the Ballance thereof being prepared and read by the Company’s Secretary, were approved of and ordered to be sent accordingly. Francis Scott, [.P.C. 28 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. Att a ParticuLarR CoMMITTEE appointed to examine the business of the severall Accomptants Clerks and other Officers in the service of the Company or ScotLanD Trading to Africa and the Indies, together with the State of their respective Sallaries.* | 13th Nov’ 1696. Present— Sir Francis Scott. Robert Watson. Sir John Swynton. James Balfour. James MacLurg. Daniel, Lodge. With several other Directors not particularly appointed. Sir John Swynton Chairman. The Committee having called in and considered of the several officers and servants abovementioned came to the following Resolutions vizt Resolved that it is the opinion of this Committee that Mr. Roderick Mac- kenzie, James Dunlop, Gawen Plummer, James Lyel, Robert Douglas, Andrew Teuchler, Andrew Cockburn, John Symmer and John Thompson, be continued according to their present Establishment already agreed unto by the Court of Directors. Resolved, that whereas John Dixon was appointed to officiate as Clerk and Accomptant to the Committee of Improvements, with the yearly sallary of 50 lib. sterling, and he declining to comply with the Court’s Resolution therein, as proposing to act as Accomptant only, it is the opinion of this Committee that he have till Munday next to advise upon it, and if in that time he do not undertake to perform according to order, that he be paid for the time he has served and that the said office be supplyed otherways. Resolved, that whereas Andrew Johnston has been established as one of the Company’s Clerks with the sallary of 30 lib. per annum, and he haying since withdrawn himself from the Company’s service, it is the opinion of this Committee that he be paid for the time he has served and his office supplyed otherways. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 29 Resolved, that whereas there are three Tellers established in the Company’s service, it is the opinion of this Committee that two Tellers may sufficiently serve, and that the Cashier be ordered to give his information to the Court concerning the Capacity and diligence of the said Tellers, in order to have one of them discharged and paid for the time he has served. Resolved, that whereas Charles Auchmutie is established the Company’s Housekeeper with the yearly sallary of 15 lib., and W™- Hopkirk established as the Company's Messenger with the yearly sallary of 10 lib., This Com- mittee is of opinion that their said salaries ought rather to be transposed, each having the Sallary which was first allotted for the other. Resolved, that it is the opinion of this Committee, that, in regard the Com- pany’s Books are yet behind, James Lindsay, Patrick Scott, and Matthew Fin- layson, be established as three Clerks with the yearly Sallary of 30 lib. each, to do the business of the three Standing Committees of the Court of Directors, and other cursory business of the Company, and that while in Intervalls that may not take up their whole time, they may be imployed in coppying over Mr. Paterson’s Journals &c. Resolved, that it is the opinion of this Committee, that by order of the Court of Directors, The Committee of Treasury do sign warrants to the Com- pany’s Cashier, for paying off the several officers and servants abovementioned in proportion to their established Sallaries, from the respective times of their first Entry into the Company’s Service to the terme of Martinmas instant, and from thence forward quarterly during their being continued in the Companie’s service as aforesaid. Joun Swinton I.P.C. M4. That pursuant to the Resolution within written John Dixon has under- taken to perform the office of Clerk and Accomptant to the Committee of Improvements according to order of Court. Resolved that it is the opinion of this Committee that Isaac Blackwell be established as Surveyor to the Company with the yearly Sallary of Sixty Pounds sterling. Joun Swinton L.P.C. 30 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. EsTABLISHMENT of the Severall Officers and Servants &c. By the Court of Directors. Mr. Roderick Mackenzie Secretary . to f : - £150 James Dunlop Chief Accomptant ) : , 3 ; 120 Gawen Plummer Chief Cashier : : 120 James Lyel Ware and Store House Baidecer | ; : é 70 Robert Douglas Accomptant . : : ‘ : : ; 80 Andrew Teuchler Accomptant ; ; ; ‘ J = 60 Andrew Cockburn Assistant to the Cashier : 60 John Dixon Clerk and Accomptant to the Committee of Improves 50 John Symmer Accomptant . . : 5 5 ; ’ 35 John Thompson Clerk. , : ; ‘ ; . 30 Andrew Johnston Clerk . : : 1 , . . 30 Gilbert More Teller : d . : ‘ : 25 Adam Nisbet Teller : : . : : . , : 25 Robert Pringle Teller ; ; : , : ; ; 25 Charles Auchmutie House-keeper ‘ : : , : 15 William Hopkirk Messenger. . : : 3 : 10 _ EstaBLisHeD by the ComMITTEE but not yet confirmed by the Court of Directors. James Lindsay Clerk a eee ; b 30 Patrick Scott Clerk , ; ; : ; : ; ‘ 30 Matthew Finlayson Clerk . . . ‘ : : Z 30 Isaac Blackwell Surveyor . : ‘ ; , ‘ 60 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 31 EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTE BOOK OF THE COMMITTEE OF IMPROVEMENTS.* Att a Court of Directors of the Company or Scoruanp Trading to Africa and the Indies, at Edinburgh the 224 of May 1696. William Hay of Drummeiler President. Ordered that the Committee of Improvements enquire and take into their consideration, whatever may be for the profitt or convenience of the Company here at home, and provide or procure such of the Manufactures of this King- dom as may from time to time be usefull to the Company and report their Proceedings to this Court accordingly. Resolved that the said Committee of Improvements may dispose of any Sum of money not exceeding One Thousand Pounds sterling for setting workemen ~ at worke, or procuring such Arms and other necessaries in Scotland as may be needfull for this Company. Resolved that the said Committee of Improvements, have power to sett at worke and take tryal of such Officers and Servants as they find necessary ; and upon proofe of their respective qualifications, to report their opinion to this Court, in order to have them established, with an account of such sallaries as they may seem to deserve in their respective stations. * This is a volume of 226 pages, bound in rough calf, deposited among the other business books of the Company. The following series of extracts is made on the principle of giving at least one specimen of every different species of minute, and an enumeration of every different class of the various commodities to which the minutes refer. 32 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. Att a Meeting of the Commrrer oF IMPROVEMENTS of the CoMPANY OF Scotitayp Trading to Africa and the Indies holden att Edinburgh the 224 of May 1696. Present— Sir John Swinton of that lk. Mr. Robert Blackwood. John Haldan of Gleneagles. James Balfour. James Maklurg. ~ Sir John Swinton chosen Chairman. Resolved that it’s the opinion of this Committee that the prosecution of the Fisherie of the Herring and White fish may be of great advantage to the Nation in general and in particular to this Company. And that in order y'to it be recommended to Mr. Robert Blackwood, and James Balfour, to inform themselves who has the Books or Journals of the former Company of the Fisherie, in order to the procuring of them, and to treate and discourse with all persons that may give the best information in the said affair. Resolved that it’s the opinion of this Committee, that a Trade to Greenland and Archangel may be carried on to good profitt to the Company as well as great advantage to the Kingdom.— And that there be proposed to the Court of Directors of this Company that a letter may be written to Mr. James Smith, or to whom they shall think fitt to send to this Committee, an account of a suteable Cargo to the Golden Coast of Africa, another to the Negro Coast, and another for Archangel, with patterns of the several goods and their prices, in order to the procuring such to be manufactured here. Adjourned to the Morrow Morn. 10 a clock. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 33 Att a Meeting of the Commirrzz or Improvements &c. Holden ait Edinburgh 234 May 1696. Present— John Haldan of Gleneagles. James Maklurg. Mr. Robert Blackwood. John Haldan of Gleneagles chosen’ Chairman. - The former Minutes being read over, the first and second Articles were approven of by the Court of Directors. To the third it was thought fitt to delay the same for this time. To the fourth they appointed a letter to be written accordingly, and appoints Mr. Robert Blackwood to draw the foresaid letter. Edinburgh, 8th June 1696. Present— Mr. Robert Blackwood. James Balfour. Mr. Robert: Blackwood tooke up an inventary of all such Samples as were given in, and their prices, and put marks upon them. Afternoon he went to Leith with James Balfour, and mett with James Robertson, Shipwright, who acquainted them that there were several woods in the north with crooked knee Timber and uprights, and that they might be had ‘as cheap as abroad, and offerred to go with James Balfour and view them and give an account. Edinburgh, 9th June 1696. Att a Meeting of the CommITTEE of ImpRovEeMENTS of the Company of ScottanD Trading to Africa and the Indies, holden att Edinburgh the 9th June 1696. Present— Sir John Swinton of that Ilk. James Balfour. John Haldan of Gleneagles. Mr. Robert Blackwood. James Macklurg. The Information mentioned in the last article of the last Sederunt being E 34 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. proposed to the Court of Directors this day, They desired a Proposal in write might be given to the said Court to this effect following. Ordered that James Balfour acquaint such persons as Carpenters and old Skippers as are in Leith, to consider where the most convenient places may be purchased for building ships and for a dry Dock, and that James Robert- + son may have in readiness a schem of such Timber as may be had in Scotland, and at what prices they may be had at abroad, and to appoint them against Thursday Morning next. Edinburgh, 22d and 23d June 1696. Att a Meeting of the Commirtzz of Improvements &c. holden att Edin- burgh the 22d of June 1696. Present— David Lord Ruthven. Mr. Robert Blackwood. James Maklurg. David Lord Ruthven chosen Chairman. Ordered a Contract to be drawn (and signed the same) with Alexander Greive shoemaker att the Goose dubb, for three hundred Cartrage Boxes with Belts, at one shilling and sixpence sterling the peice, to be delivered betwixt and the first day of September next, under the failzie of five pounds sterling &c. conform to the contract, and a Band apart with Thomas Donald- son Cautioner for him. He is to receive from the Treasurer in part of pay- ment per advance, the sum of five pounds sterling per advance. Adjourned till to morrow at 3 a clock in the afternoon. Edinburgh, 30th June 1696. Ordered a Contract to be drawn with Thomas Broun Smith in Edinburgh, For ‘ 100 Iron spades of two fashions alike of each at 29d. p.s. 100 English fashioned spade mouths at 40d. p.s. 100 Large Stocklocks at 13d. p.s. 100 Lesser ditto at 11d. p.s. To be delivered against the first day of October next, under the failzie of 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 35 eight Pounds six shillings and eight pence sterling, and conditioned to pay him at signing thereof the sum of nyne Pounds sterling upon receipt therein. Ordered a contract to be drawen with Patrick Drysdale Smith in Edin- burgh, For 200 Stocklocks at 13d. p.s. 200 Ditto lesser at 11d. p.s. 200 Chamber Door Locks at 10d. p.s. 200 Ditto lesser at 8d. p.s. Edinburgh, 1st July 1696. 60 Iron Spades of 2 fashions alike of each at 9d. p.s. 100 Wombles of 3 sizes at 74d. overhead. 100 Mattock Howes at 3d. per pr lb. weight. 100 Felling Axes at 11d. p.s. 100 Carpenters-Axes at 24d. p.s. 50 Coupers Axes at 26d. p.s. 50 Coupers little Howes at 9d. p.s. 50 Coupers justing Irons at 10d. p.s. 50 Coupers Edges at 16d. p.s. 50 Coupers drawing knives at 12d. p.s. 50 Carpenters r F 50 House Carpenters 5 pea et 50 Broad Howes at 13d. ; Edinburgh, 3d July 1696. Agreed with John and Robert Stevenson Cutlers in Falkirk, for as many course pocket Knives at one shil. sterling per Dozen, as many Bill-knives at ten pence sterling p.s. and as many Masheet knives at one shilling and ten pence sterling p.s. as they can get made against the First day of October next, and then delivered them for Patterns three Bill knives and a Masheet knife, and paid them per advance by James Maklurg nyneteen shillings and four pence sterling, conform to warrant without receipt. Bought of John Fleucker Smith in Pathhead. 3100 Plencher Naills at 3s. 2d. sterling per 1000. 36 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. 2700 Ditto Doors at 2s. 4d. sterling per 1000. 3800 Ditto headed Floorings at 4s. 10d. per 1000. 1000 Blind floorings at 4s. 10d. per 1000. 100 Double floorings at 11d. per 100. Edinburgh, 10th July 1696. Bought of John Porteous Merchant in Dalkeith, two steill mills for grinding of Corn, at two Pounds five shillings sterling the peice, for which paid him by James Maklurg, conform to warrant and Receipt, four Pounds ten shillings ster's: Bought of John Gray Merchant in Old Meldrum, seventy nine Dozen of worset Aberdeen stockings, at eleven shillings sterling per Dozen, and paid him by James Maklurg, conform to Order and Receipt in full thereof, fourty — three Pounds nine shillings sterling, whereof keeped one Dozen in the Pattern Chamber, and delivered the other 78 Dozen to Mrs. Bickerton to mend, con- form to agreement hereafter mentioned. . At a Meeting of the Commirrex of Improvements &c. holden at Edin- burgh the 13th of July 1696. Present-— James Maklurg. John Corse. Mr. Robert Blackwood. James Maklurg Chairman. After reading over of the two last Sederunts,—Approved of all that were therein done— Resolved that Isaac Blackwell provide for this Committee Patterns of all Coupers’, Carpenters’, Shoemakers, &c. Tools, that are yet wanting, as also that he provide patterns of Tortoise Irons. . Resolved that Mr. Robert Blackwood write to the North for Fishing-lines of 100 Fathom in each Line. Resolved to speak with William Gray at Iron-Mills, anent Smith’s Hammers, Anvels, Fore Hammers, and bellowses. Resolved to write to Glasgow for patterns of the following particulars, viz. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 37 Wooden-Bouls or Mass-Plaiters Horn spoons Smothing Irons White-Iron Candlesticks Lanthorns of Timber and White Iron Timber Stoups or Ship Cans of Quarts and upward Virginia Tobacco Pipes Plaiding Hose Cod hooks of the largest, 3000 Haddock Hooks of the largest, 3000 Fish Hooks of all other Sorts, 2000 of each And to that effect Ordered Patrick Scott to write to William Arbuckle re- quireing also an answer of his last. Ordered a Contract to be drawen and signed the same with John Galbraith, Smith, in Sauchenford, for 30 Chamber door Locks at 8d. sterling p.s. 30 Ambrie ditto at 5d. sterling p.s. 30 pr. Portle door Bands large at 1s. sterling pr. 30 pr. Portle door Bands of the 2d sort at 9d. sterling pr. 30 pr. Window Bands at 3d. sterling pr. 30 pr. Dovetailed Bands at 2d. sterling pr. with their lowest prices. with their lowest prices. Edinburgh, 22d July 1696. Agreed to pay Isobel Wilson, Spouse to James Bickerton, Wright in Edin- burgh, three Pence sterling for mending of each Dozen of Dozens of Stockings, just now delivered to her, whereof those given to James Spence is a part, which is both to be mended before and after Dyeing, and ordered her to buy three Pound of white Worsted to be dyed of three Colours foresaid for mending the same, but entered into no write with her nor yet advanced her any Money. Edinburgh, 30th September 1696. Ordered a Contract to be drawn and signed the same, with Patrick Mac- keon, William Cargill, and Joseph Taylor, Smiths in St. Johnston for— 100 Shoemakers mounted Hammers at 9d. p.s. 38 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. 50 Coupers Justing Irons at 9d. p.s. 50 Wrights Formers at 9d. p.s. 100 Carpenters Hand plain Irons large at 34d. p.s. 100 Ditto lesser at 24d. p.s. 100 House Carpenters Gudges for carving at 4d. p.s. 100 Ditto lesser at 3d. p.s. 100 Beddle Irons or Mortis Irons at 4d. p.s. 100 Ditto lesser at 3d. p.s. 50 Iron Laddles for melting lead at 5d. Ib. w. 100 Coupers Knives with long shafts at 5d. p.s. 200 Tinder Box Frizells of 3 sizes at 24d. p.s. 100 pr Chest Bands of the largest size at 10d. pr. 50 Fish-Giggs or Harpoon Irons at 20d. p.s. 200 Iron Candlesticks large at 10d. p.s. 100 Ditto lesser at 6d. p.s. To be delivered against Candlemass next under the failzie of ten Pounds sterling, and then paid them by George Clark per advance twenty Pounds sterling, conform to Order and Receipt therein, they binding conjunctlie and severallie. Edinburgh, 14th October 1696. Ordered George Clark to pay to John Bruce, John Blackie, and John Hepburn, Hattmakers in Edinburgh, one hundred and nyne Pounds sterling, which with thretty five pounds sterling formerly paid them, is in full of 1440 Hatts at 24d. sterling p.s. delivered into the Warehouse 9th Instant, as a part of their Contract, which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Edinburgh, 21st October 1696. Ordered a contract to be drawn and signed the same, with Robert Smith and James Broun in Canongate, William Taylor and Thomas Robertson in Calton, and Johu Dickson in Kittlenaked, all cordiners, for 500 pair of slippers, whereof each person is to have 100 pr., the one half of the whole being mens’ and the other half womens’ slippers &c. conform to the Contract. The Mens’ at 24d. sterling pr. and the Womens’ at 20d. sterling pr. To be 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 39 delivered against the last of December next under the failzie of sterling, and then paid them per advance twenty pounds sterling by George Clark, conform to Order and Receipt in the Contract. Edinburgh, 11th November 1696. Bought of John Gay Horner at Carlyle 112 Doz. Tortoise horn Spoons at 30d Doz. 36 Doz. Greenhorn spoons at 18d Doz. For which paid him by George Clark four Pound two shillings and nine pence sterling, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Edinburgh, 13th November 1696. Ordered George Clark to pay to Agnes Campbell Relict of Andrew Ander- son Printer, fyftie Pounds sterling, per advance of a Bargan of Bibles and Catechisms she is to deliver to the Company, which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Edinburgh, 18th November 1696. Ordered a Contract to be drawn and signed the same, with John Mac- kowne Merchant in Dunkeld, for 400 ells 3 broad Brown Black and Gray Kelt, at 14d ell, to be delivered against the 15th January next, under the failzie of eight Pounds sterling without advance and so no caution. Ordered a contract to be drawn with Jeromie Robertson Perriwig-maker in Edinburgh, For 25 Campaign-Wigs at 15s. sterling p.s. 25 Bobb Wiggs at 6s. sterling p.s. To be delivered against 18 January next, under the failzie of five Pounds sterling, and conditioned to pay him per advance at signing thereof by George Clark twelve Pound sterling, conform to Order and Receipt to be therein contained. Edinburgh, 25th November 1696, Bought of Robert Stevenson Cutler in Falkirk, Four Gross Pocket Knives at 11s. sterling Gross. For which paid him in full by George Clark Two Pound Four shillings sterling, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. 40 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1696. Edinburgh, 27th November 1696. Ordered George Clark to pay to John and Robert Monros and Andrew Duncan Bowers in Edinburgh, five Pound five shillings sterling, which with three Pound-ten shillings formerly, is in full of their Contract of Lasts at the.long score the 100 ; they having delivered into the warehouse yesterday 112 Mens’ 113 Womens’ 54 Boys’ and 54 Girles’ as per Ja. Lyells Receipt ; and to Isaac Blackwell of Patterns 4 Mens’ 4 Boys’ 4 lasses’ and 4 Womens’ from Robert Monro; and from Andrew Duncan 4 Mens’ 3 Womens’ 2 Boys’ and 2 Lasses’ lasts; which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid conform to Order Account and Receipt on the Back of the Contract retired. Ordered George Clark to pay to William Taylor shoemaker in Calton, four Pound one shill. and eight pence sterling, which with four Pound three shillings and four pence sterling formerly paid him, is in full of his Contract, except one pair in custodie of Isaac Blackwell which he paid, the said William Taylor having delivered into the Warehouse yesterday 99 pr Womens’ shoes at 20d. pr, which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt on the Back of the Contract retired. Edinburgh, 27th November 1696. Ordered George Clark to pay to Isaac Blackwell, in name of Jean Weems Relict of Patrick Crawfoord Pipemaker in Pleasants twenty Pounds sterling, till a further account of her Contract of Pipes, which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid, conform to Order and Receipt on the said Jean Weem’s letter. | Edinburgh, 4th December 1696. Bought of William Park Combmaker in Leith, 13 Gross of Combs at 12 . Gross. 6 Dozen at 18d Doz. 2 Gross 8 Doz. at 16d Doz. 113 Gross at 10d Doz. 8 Gross and 2 Doz. at 14d Doz. 6 Gross and 6 Doz. at 8d Doz. 1 Gross and 10 Doz. at 6d Doz. For which paid him in full by George Clark twenty five Pounds sterling, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. 1696. THE DARIEN PAPERS. j 41 Edinburgh, 4th December 1696. inderad Isaac Blackwell to deliver (conform to Baillie Clark’s order which accordingly he did) to John Pringle Dyer in Edinburgh, six hundred and ten ells of Stirling Sarges, contained in fourteen peeces; and he is to receive as many ells more of Linen Cloth to dye blew, conform to the said Baillie Clark’s warrand, the sarges being to be dyed of severall colours as shall be conde- scended on, but the prices of dyeing of either are not yet determined. Edinburgh, 9th December 1696. Isaac Blackwell being called in and demanded of what colours the Sarges should be dyed; his opinion was (whereunto the Committee seemed to acquiesce) that they should be of the following colours, viz. One fourth part black, one fourth part blew, one fourth part of several sorts of reds, and one fourth part of several sorts of cloth colours. Edinburgh, 11th December 1696. Ordered George Clark to pay to Isaac Blackwell, in name of David Mont- gomerie Pipe maker at Tranent, the sum of five Pound sterling, till account of ten Pound four shillings sterling for twelve Barrells of African fashioned Pipes, consisting in all of 163 Gross at 14d Gross, and for 12 Barrells that contains the same, the Pipes and Barrells being delivered to the said Isaac Blackwell; which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Bought of Robert Preston in Musselburgh, 2 ps Masquerad stuff of 63 ells at 64d ell. For which paid him in full by George Clark one Pound fourteen shillings, one Pence 4d sterling, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Paid by Baillie Clark to David Walker Tanner at Leslie, sixteen Pound thretteen shillings and four pence sterling, in full of fourty Oyled Hides for Bellowses, at eight shillings and four pence sterling per hide, delivered into the warehouse yesterday, agreed for by Minute only, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Edinburgh, 15th December 1696, Bought of Duncan Buchanan Sword slipper in Glasgow, fourteen Three Barred Horsemans swords at 56d sterling per peice. F 42 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1697. Delivered to Isaac Blackwell, for which paid him in full by George Clark three Pound five shillings and four pence sterling, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Edinburgh, 25th December 1696. Bought of Christian Greg the Buttons following, 9 Gross Scotts Buttons, containing 2 Gross in each bagg, at 10d sterling per Gross. 4 Gross Buttons at 18d per Gross. 7 Gross Hair Buttons at 8d per Gross. 1 Gross Meikle Hair Buttons at 5d per Gross. For which paid her in full by George Clark, one Pound Eight shillings and Eleven Pence sterling, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Edinburgh, 30th December 1696. Agreed with Peter Mortimure Glover in St. Johnston, for twenty Dozen of pair of Gloves, such as Baillie Clark bought of John Somervell Glover in Edinburgh, at six shillings and eight pence sterling per Dozen, to be delivered against the first of Aprile next, under the failzie of One Pound Thretteen shillings and Four pence sterling, conform to the extended contract signed this day. Edinburgh, 6th January 1697. Bought of Dayid Bennet skinner in St- Johnston, 6 Doz. of Kid-Gloves for Women at 7s. Doz. 4 Doz. Lamb ditto at 5s. Doz. 7 Doz. Cordevants for men at 12s. Doz. 6 Doz. sheep ditto at 8s. Doz. For which paid William Bruce weaver in Canongate, in name of the said David Bennet, in full, by George Clark, nine Pound fourteen shillings sterling, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Ordered George Clark to pay to James Addie Hookmaker in Leith Wind, eight Pound thretteen shill. and four pence sterling, which with eight Pounds sterling formerly paid to him, is in full of his contract for 4000 Priming Irons, and 4000 wormes for Gunns, at 1d. sterling the peice of both, delivered 1697. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 43 into the Warehouse the last of December 1696 ; which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt on the Contract retired. Ordered George Clark to pay to David Darling Smith in Calton, one Pound sterling in full of 20 Doz. of Tortoise Irons at 1s. sterling per Doz., agreed for by Minute of Sederunt only, 28 August 1696 ; which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid, conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Ordered a Contract to be drawn and signed the same, with Francis Van- hagan Gunsmith in Leith Wind, for fourtie Mounted Guns at 20s. p.s. and twenty pair Mounted Pistolls at 17s. pr. To be delivered against the First of May next under the Failzie of six Pounds sterling ; and then paid him per advance by George Clark ninteen Pounds sterling, conform to Order and Receipt therein, he finding John Mac- kail Peutherer in Canongate, Caution. Edinburgh, 22d January 1697. Ordered George Clark to pay to John Clark Merchant in Edinburgh, the sum of one hundred Pound Ten shillings sterling, in full of threttie Dozen of pairs of fine loom stockings, at five shillings and seven Pence sterling the pair, bought and received of him 26th October 1696, which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid conform to Order Account and Receipt. Edinburgh, 27th January 1697. Ordered George Clark to pay to John Drummond of Newton, the sum of sixty six Pounds seven shillings and eight Pence sterling, in full of an Account of Cows and their charges, bought by him for the use of the Company, viz. 29 Septet (96) 26 Cows and oxen bought at Kirkmichael and sent to Leith which cost : : ; : sh) BSS EOF Charges in bringing to Leith : i é 01 : 07 : 06 27th Octt: (96) 21 Cattle bought at Blair, sow : Ne Dealt Oy OB Charges in bringing them to Leith ; : : : 01 : 04 : 024 Which sum accordingly the said George Clark paid conform to Order, Account, and Receipt. Ordered George Clark to pay to John Hopkin Bell-maker in Westport, one Pound five shillings sterling per advance, till account of the Hangers +t THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1697. to Pattentash Belts that he is just now making to the Company, which sum accordingly he paid conform to Order and Receipt. Edinburgh, 29th January 1697. Ordered a Contract to be drawn and signed the same with Joseph Taylor Smith in Perth for 6 Gross of Carpenters Square Irons and Gudges, of sortable sizes, from se: straw broad to an inch, at 2s. sterling per Dozen. 25 Shoemakers Beating Hammers with shafts and wadges at 4d. per lib. weight. To be delivered against the 15th of Aprile next. V.—DELEGATION TO PROCURATORS TO ASSIGN STOCK TO FOREIGNERS.* Curia Directorum Societatis Scotiz in Africam et Indias Commercium agentis, per literas hasce patentes, nominat constituit et delegat, honorabilem virum Johannem Erskine filium Nobilissimi Domini Davidis Domini de Car- dross et Preefectum Arcis de Stirling, Johannem Haldan Baronem de Glen- eagles, Gulielmum Paterson et Jacobum Smyth Mercatores, dictz Societatis Directores, veros suos ac indubitatos Delegatos, Mandatarios, et dictz Societa- tis ad effectus infra-scriptos legitimos Procuratores ; cum plena et libera potestate et -authoritate, preenominatis Johanni Erskine, Johanni Haldan, Gulielmo Paterson, et Jacobo Smyth, quamcunque summam aut quascunque summas (non ultra ducenta millia Librarum monetz Sterlinensis ex ea parte Sortis Communis dictze Societatis de qua dicta Directorum Curia vestita est) assignandi et transferendi, quibuscunque exteris Mercatoribus, Ordinibus, tam Politicis quam Corporatis, aut ullis aliis quos dictz Societatis commodo et emolumento idoneos magis ac utiles fore existiment : Ac etiam, in usum dictz Societatis et eo nomine, primam quartam partem recipiendi, omnium et singu- larum summarum, que modo supra-dicto per dictos Delegatos translatz fuerint. * From the original, engrossed on vellum in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1697. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 45 In cujus rei Testimonium, et majorem Premissorum solennitatem, authentica horum presentium Exemplaria, tam Latine quam Anglice, per dictz Curie Secretarium perfici, et dictz Societatis sigillum Premissis appendi, precipitur. Datum in dicta Directorum Curia, apud Edinburgum, decimo sexto die Sep- tembris, Anno Domini millesimo sexcentesimo nonagesimo sexto. Extractum de Libris Actorum dictz Curie per me Rov. Mackenzie Secretarium dictz Societatis. \ VI.—MINUTES OF APPOINTMENT OF ADDITIONAL COUNCILLORS.* Ata Meeting of the new Chosen Counciuuors of the Company or Scor- LAND trading to Africa and the Indies, holden att Edinburgh the 3d day of March 1697, the Earl of Panmure President. Upon a motion made for choosing and assuming one Counciller more, for every ten thousand Pounds sterling of such of the said Company’s stock as the Proprietors thereof have neglected to give in their nomination of repre- sentatives within the due time limited by their Constitutions. Ordered that all the present Councillors do on Friday next, between the hours of ten and twelve in the Forenoon, give in Lists of Twenty one Per- sons to be by majority of votes added to the number of the present Council- lours of the said Company as aforesaid. Ordered that Lieut. Coll. Wishart, Commissary Elphinston, Mr. David Drummond, and Baillie Hugh Cunningham, or any two of them at least, do attend att the Company’s house on Friday next at the said prefixed hours, to _ receive the said Lists and see the same fairly put in a proper box for that purpose, till the scrutiny be made. Ordered that the said Lieut. Coll. Wishart, Commissary Elphinston, Mr. David Drummond, and Baillie Hugh Cuningham, together with such others * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 46 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1697.- as shall please to come, do meet at three o’clock in the afternoon on the said day to make the Scrutiny. Ordered, That all the Present Councellours do meet on the said day by four o clock in the afternoon to declare the said Scrutiny and Election accordingly. e Panmure, I.P.C. Att a Meeting of the new chosen Councellours of the Company oF ScotLanD Trading to Africa and the Indies, Holden att Edinburgh the 5th day of March 1697. Post meridiem. The Earl of Panmure President. The minutes of the last meeting being read over, the particular Com- mittee therein appointed, reported that they had according to Order taken in Lists of Twenty one Councellours to represent the share of Stock belong- ing to the Directors, as well as to such other Proprietors as have neglected to give in their nomination of Representatives in due time; and that upon a fair scrutiny of the said Lists, the choice had beyond all exception fallen upon the several persons following, vizt- The Earl of Argyle. Michael Allan late Dean of Lord Carmichael. Guild. Baillie Robt- Blackwood. Baillie George Home. John Graham of Douglaston. _ David Crauford Keeper of the Henry Douglas Writter. Signet. The Earle of Annandale. Lord Philliphaugh. John Hay of Alderston. Robert Wallwood Merchant in Lord Rankeillor. Edinburgh. Mr. James Dalrymple of Kelloch. | Mungo Graham of Gorthie. George Dundass in Leith. And that for the other five Councellours, there had been twelve Candidates who had equal votes, upon which the Councellours chosen by Deputations, ' proceeded to a new election of five out of the said twelve Candidates, and the choice by Scroll and Scrutiny fell upon 3 The Earl of Lauderdale. Hugh Blair Dean of Guild. Peter Wedderburn of Gosford. John Cuningham Writter to the Mr. Robt. Stewart Junt Advocat. Signet. 1697. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 47 which together with those already chosen compleats the number of fourty Councellours. Ordered that the Company’s Secretary take care in due time to acquaint the said Councellours of their being chosen as aforesaid, and requiring their attendance at a meeting of the Council-General on Wednesday the tenth day of March instant, about three o’clock in the afternoon. Panmure, J.P.C. VII.—SAILING INSTRUCTIONS TO WILLIAM TENANT.* Instructions from the Court or Directors of the Company oF Scor- LAND Trading to Africa and the Indies, to Caprain WILLIAM Ten- NANT Commander of one of the said Company’s Ships named the Caledonia. Whereas the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty have ordered his Majesties Ship the Royal William, commanded by Capt Edward Burd, to carry and transport to Hamburgh such seamen as are by you listed into the Company’s service, therefore you are with all convenient expedition to go on board his said Majestie’s Ship, accompanied with all the Seamen listed by you as aforesaid, and then to give your best assistance to the said Capt Burd in making the best of your way to Hamburgh, where you are immedi- atly upon your arrival to repair to Mr. Alexander Stevenson our Company’s present Agent in that City, and deliver to him the herewith transmitted Pacquet. You are then with all convenient Speed to receive of the hands of the said Mr. Stevenson our said Company’s‘Ship named the Caledonia, and take upon you the Charge and command thereof, with an Inventory of all manner of Goods, Stores, provisions, amunition, and other necessaries thereunto be- longing, signed by the said Mr. Stevenson, which you are to signify by a receipt to him under your hand. * From the original certified Extract in the Miscellaneous Collection. 48 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1697. You are likeways to take on board of our said Company’s Ship all such other Cargo, or Merchant Goods as the said Mr. Stevenson shall appoint or allow of, we having particularly advised him with relation thereunto, and while you continue at Hamburgh to follow his advice and Instructions, in all matters relating to the Company's service, and after having received your dispatches there, you are to make the best of your way directly home to the Road of Leith, still keeping Company (as near as conveniently may be) with his Majesties said Ship the Royal William, and the Company’s other Ship called the Instauration, commanded by Capt: John Brown. And in regard we understand that you and the said Capt John Brown are in very good terms each with the other, we do allow you to concert and agree among yourselves as to the matter of precedency in point of Command, but in case you should happen to disagree therein you are (in presence of Mr. Stevenson) to determine the same by Lot or Cast of Dice. You are also to concert and agree with the said Capt- Brown, as to an equal division of all the Seamen which are to carry over the Company’s said two ships from Hamburgh as aforesaid, but if you should happen any ways to differ therein, you are to be determined by “aa said Mr. Stevenson as abso- lute umpire for us in that matter. And whereas further the Lords Commissioners of the Admirality have upon our request granted you a Commission or Letter of Mare dated the 3d day of August 1697, herewith delivered unto you, you are to act pursuant thereunto, with such Care Conduct and discretion, as is suteable to the trust reposed in you, and the bond of Cautionry granted to the said Admirality by the said Company.* Extracted by order of the said Court of Directors. Signed at Edinburgh the 20th day of August 1697 ete. in com- muni forma by Rop. Mackenzig, Secry- * On the 3d August 1697 Letters of marque were also issued to John Brown, “ Captain of the good ship or frigate called the Instauration, Robert Punkerton, Captain of the Union, and James Gibson, Captain of the Rising Sun.”—Minutes of Scots Privy Council. 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 49 VITI—APPOINTMENT OF THE COUNCIL OF THE COLONY.* Know all men by these presents, that in pursuance of the powers and privileges granted by the 32d Act of the 4th Session and the 8th Act of the 5th Session of this current Parliament—as well as by His Majesty’s letters patent under the great seal of this Kingdom, to the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, the Council General of the said Company have upon mature deliberation Resolved (God willing) to settle and plant a Colony in some place or other not inhabited, in America, or in or upon any other place, by consent of the natives and inhabitants thereof, and not possessed by any European Sovereign Potentate Prince or State, to be called by the name of CALEDONIA ; and the said Councill General, reposing full trust and confidence in the capacity fidelity discretion and good conduct of their trustty and well- beloved friends Major James Cuningham of Eickett, Mr. James Montgomery, Mr. Daniel Mackay, Cap". Robert Jolly, Capt®. Robert Pennicuik, Capt". Wil- liam Vetch, and Capt. Robert Pinkarton,—have Resolved and fully agreed upon the following fundamental Constitutions as a perpetual Rule of Govern- ment for the said Colony, viz. 1. That the Government Civil, Military and Admirality of the said pains and dependancies thereof, shall be and remain in the persons of the said Major James Cuningham of EHickett, Mr. James Montgomery, Mr. Daniel Mackay, Capt. Robert Jolly, Capt- Robert Pennicuik, Capt William Vetch, and Capt. Robert Pinkarton, from the time of their setting sail from Scotland, to- gether with such others as shall be assum’d and added to them in manner after specified ; with full power to appoint and constitute all Officers Civil and Military, by Sea or Land, so far as may relate to the said Colony and Dependancies thereof; the said Seven persons as Councellours and Governours of the said Colony, first taking an oath de fideli to the Company, in presence of the said Council-General, before their departure hence, and all the other Councellours that shall happen to be assum’d from time to time; taking the same oath in presence of the former Councellours in being for the time, * From the original Duplicate signed by the Council, in the Miscellaneous Collection. G 50 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698: before they enter upon the Administration of any part of the said Govern- ment. 2. That in case of the death or other removal of any of these Seven Coun- cellours above nam’d, the Survivers of them shall nominate and assume others in their respective places, and after their Landing and Settlement on the Com- pany’s intended plantation or Colony, they may (as they see cause) add and assume such other persons as they shall think fitt (not*exceeding six in number) to be joyned to themselves in the exercise and administration of the said Government. ; 3. That any Director or Councellour of this Company for the time being who in any time coming may happen to be on the said Colony—Shall as such be a Supernumerary Member of the said Council during his stay there. 4. That in case any of the said Council shall happen to be charged with malversation, in the execution of his Office or administration of Justice, he shall be lyable to be judged by the said Council and (if found guilty) to be punished as the said Council shall see cause, and his place (if vacated) to be supplyed and filled up in manner above mentioned, reserving always and declaring hereby that the same be without prejudice to the power of the Council-General of the Company, to judge any of the said Council in the first or second instance as they shall think fitt. 5. That after their Landing and Settlement as aforesaid, they shall class and divide the whole Freemen Inhabitants of the said Colony into Districts, each District to contain at least fifty and not exceeding sixty free-men Inhabit- ants, who shall elect yearly any one Freeman Inhabitant whom they shall think fit, to represent them in a Farliament or Council-General of the said Colony, which Parliament shall be called or adjourned by the said Council as they see cause, and being so constitute may with consent of the said Council, make and enact such Rules, Ordinances, and Constitutions, and impose such Taxes as they shall think fitt and needfull for the good establishment improve- ment and support of the said Colony, providing always they lay no further dueties or impositions of Trade than what is here under-expressed. 6. That-all Persons, of what Nation soever, have full freedom and liberty to trade to and from the said Colony under the condition after-mentioned, and that such of them as shall come to live and inhabite on the said Colony, shall according to their respective States and conditions enjoy equal privileges with 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 51 the other Inhabitants thereof, such Inhabitants first giving up their several names and designations to be enrolled in a particular Register to be kept for that use. 7. That no person whatsoever, shall by the said Council or any power Sub- ordinate to them, be detained in prison upon any pretence, above the space of three months, without being brought to a fair tryal, unless specially war- ranted by order of Parliament. 8. That the Company do reserve to themselves the 2;th part of all Lands and grounds that shall be possessed by the said Colony. 9. That the Company do also reserve to themselves, the 38 part of all Gold-dust, Mines of Gold, Silver, or other Metalls or Minerals, to be delivered above ground free of all Charges, together with the said proportion of Pearl- fishing, Wrecks, Ambergreese, precious wood, Jewels, Gems or Stones of value, that shall any ways be found in or upon the said Colony or dependancies thereof, and that the remaining 19 parts thereof do equally belong to the Com- pany and Colony in proportion to their respective proportions of Lands in the said Colony, they always contributing in proportion to their respective interests to all Charges for discovering and working the said Mines and others. 10. That the said Colony shall hold the whole Lands and others above mentioned of the Company, The Council there in name of the Colony paying yearly to the Company an Hogshead of Tobacco in name of blench duety (if required) allenarly for the same. 11. That from and after the first day of January which shall be in the year of our Lord 1702, all European, Asian, and African Goods imported to the said Colony and Dependancies thereof by any of the Inhabitants of the Kingdom of Scotland, or of the said Colony, in Ships belonging to the said Kingdom or Colony, shall yield and pay to the said Company the rate or duety of two # cent of their full value, to be paid either in money or Goodes, at the option of the said Company ; and that all European, Asian, and African Goods im- ported to the said Colony and Dependancies thereof by any other persons or Ships not so qualified, shall yield and pay to the said Company the rate or duty of 3 } cent. in manner aforesaid ; but that all Goods of the growth or product of America imported to the said Colony and Dependancies thereof from any other Plantation of what Nation soever, shall yield and pay to the said Com- pany a duty of 1 % cent. only in goods or money as aforesaid, and no more. 52 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. ’ 12. That all Goods and Merchandize of the growth and product of Asia, Africa, or America, exported from the said Colony and Dependancies thereof, by any of the Inhabitants of the Kingdom of Scotland or the said Colony, in ships belonging to the said Kingdom or Colony, shall yield and pay to the said Company the rate and duety of 2 cent. to be paid either in money or Goodes, at the option of the said Company, and that all Goods of the Growth and product of Asia, Africa, or America, exported from the said Colony and Depen- dancies thereof, by any other persons or Ships not so qualified, shall yield and pay to the said Company the rate or duety of 4 ¥ cent. in manner above mentioned. 13. That the Company do communicate to the said Council for the behoofe and benefite of the said Colony and Dependancies thereof, all Powers priviledges, - and immunities granted to and in favours of the said Company by Act of Par- liament, under the Restrictions, Reservations, conditions and provisions, above and under-written ; Declaring always, likeas it is hereby specially provided and declared, that all Settlements, Plantations, enlargements, extensions or Fac- tories, that shall hereafter happen to be made or planted by the said Council and Colony in any place whatsoever, shall be repute and holden to be Depen- dancies and parts pendicles and pertinents of the said Colony, and to hold of the said Company and be subjected to the whole Rules and Constitutions above-written,—and to be under the same Restrictions of Government and duety for import and export of Goods payable to the Company as in the cases respective above exprest. In testimony of all which Premisses, these presents are in name, presence, and by order of the said Council General, Signed by the Company’s Secretary and Sealed with the Company’s Seal, At Edinburgh the eight day of July One Thousand Six hundred and Ninty eight years. This is a true Copy of the Fundamental Constitutions of the intended Oolong therein mentioned, to which we the several Councellours therein named, and undersubscribing, do sign in token of our acceptance, and do promise to regulate ourselves accordingly. Witness our hands at Leith this 12th day of July 1698. Rost. PENNECUIK. Roser JOLLY. J. MonTaomery. RoBerT Pincarron. Dan. Mackay. WILL. VETCH. 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 53 The Oath appointed by the Councit-GenERAL of the INDIAN and AFrRicaAN CoMPANY OF ScoTLaNnD, to be taken by the Counsellours appointed, or to be appointed, for the Government of their intended Colony in the Indies.* I ______—————_-—s do’: Solemnly promise and Swear, in presence of Almighty God, that I shall be faithful and just to the trust reposed in me by the Said Company, and shall to the best of my knowledge and skill, endeavour to promote the benefit of the said Company and interest of the said Colony, as I shall answer to God. J. CUNNINGHAME. Rost. PENNICUICK. RoBERT JOLLY. Rost: PINCARTON. Dan. Mackay. WIL. VETCH. J. MONTGOMERIE. IX._INSTRUCTIONS TO THE COUNCIL OF THE COLONY.+ InstrucTIONS from the CouNcIL-GENERAL of the ComMPANY oF SCOTLAND Trading to Africa and the Indies, to Major JAMES CUNINGHAME of Hickett, Mr. James Montcomery, Mr. DanieL Mackay, Caprain RoBert JoLtuy, Capt- Ropert PENNIcUIK, CaPt- WILLIAM VETCH, and Capt. RoBpert PINKARTON, appointed by them to be the Council, and to have the Government of their intended Colony. Whereas the Company has laid out expended and bestowed the most con- siderable part of their whole Stock, in preparing buying and fitting of Ships, * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. t From the original Duplicate signed by the Council, in the Miscellaneous Collection. 54 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. Tenders, Stores, Ammunitions, Provisions, Cargos, and all other matters need- ful toward the Settling of their intended Colony, the Charge thereof ought in all reason and gratitude to be refounded again in due time by the Colony to the Company, with a valuable consideration during the non payment thereof,— Therefore and to the end the Colony.may be the better able to support itself and repay the expense of the premisses to the Company as aforesaid, you have herewith deliver’d to your Charge and remitted to your trust for the said Colony’s use, the Company’s Ships the Caledonia, the St. Andrew, and the Unicorn—as also the Dolphin and Endeavour advice Yauchts or Tenders, together with the Stores, Amunition, provisions, and Cargos of Merchandize thereunto belonging, as by the respective Inventaries and Invoyces thereof doth appear ; all which You shall.to your best skill and power order, dispose of, and manage to the best advantage pursuant to the following Instructions. 1mo. You shall sail from this Kingdom pursuant to the Instructions you shall receive from the Directors of this Company for that purpose. 240. When you shall arrive at the port or place of Settlement directed by your said Instructions for sailing, and shall find it convenient for that pur- pose, you shall debarque the people and the provisions, Goods, and Merchandizes needfull, and take possession of the place in the Company’s name, holding of the Crown of Scotland, there to build, plant, and fortify, dispose and imploy the Ships and men in the best manner for. serving and promoting the Colony, and for the most advantage to the Company. 30. After Landing and Resolution of Settlement, You shall with all possible speed dispatch home to us an exact journal of your voyage, Landing, pro- ceedings and condition of the place. 4. You shall take care that the Colony do punctually observe all the con- ditions, and pay the whole duties, reserved to the Company by the fundamental Constitutions of the said Colony, in consideration of the great concessions and privileges therein granted. 5. And in regard the value and cost of the Ships, Miata Based ammuni- tion, provisions, and Cargos above mention’d are the principal matters charged as a debt upon the Colony, You are hereby impowered and authorized to imploy the said Ships, Tenders, Stores, Ammunition, Provisions and Cargos for the mantenance, Support, benefite, and defence thereof, the said Colony paying yearly to the Company from the first of June 1698 the Sum of 1698. | THE DARIEN PAPERS. 55 £7000 Ster!l. as an annual consideration for the same, redeemable only, and to be made void upon the Colony’s paying to the Company the compleat Sum of £70000 ster!l- over and above the said yearly payments ; the said Colony still bearing the whole risque from the time of the Ships setting sail from Scotland, and indemnifying the Company not only of all wages to Officers, Seamen, and others, but likeways of all other incident charges and expenses relating to the said Colony, and to the Ships also, during their being continued in the Colony’s Service, with this particular reservation and condition, that the Company may at any time after the expiration of seven years.to be reckon’d from the first of June foresaid, demand and call home all or any of the said Ships, and discount the value thereof (as they shall be estimated at the time of their arrival in Scotland) of the principal debt above charged, and likeways a proportionable abatement of the yearly payments above men- tion’d. 6. And in regard further that several persons who shall come to inhabite on the said Colony may possibly be desirous to be interested in the Joint- Stock of this Company, you are hereby impowered to open books and receive Subscriptions, any time before the first of June which shall be in the year of our Lord 1701, for any sum not exceeding £50000 ster's: they paying at the same time the first fourth part of their respective Subscriptions, either in money or goodes at your option, with the interest thereof from the first of June 1698. 7. You are carefully to observe that the several Sums due and payable to the Company from the Colony, upon any acct whatsoever, be paid either in money or goods according to the current value for the time upon the said Colony, and be by you transmitted to the Company in the most profitable manner. 8. You shall upon demand be accomptable to the Company or such per-— sons as they shall appoint from time to time, for all the Trusts, Goodes, or effects of or belonging to them that shall or may at any time hereafter be or remain in your hands. © 9. You shall from time to time and upon all occasions send and transmitt faithfull and due accotts of your Transactions and proceedings to the Court of Directors of this Company. 10. You shall cause true Coppies and Duplicates of all your Proceedings, 56 THE DARIEN PAPERS. . 1698. Books, and Registers, to be kept and attested by your Secretary, or proper officers for that purpose, and shall yearly transmitt the Same to the said Court of Directors. for their Information and Government. 11. You shall by consent of the Parliament there take care that all the publick Inns and Drinking-houses of the said Colony, may be and remain in the disposal of the Government towards the defraying the publick expense thereof. 12. You shall take care that the Lands of the said Colony from time to time may be proportion’d in as just and equal divisions as possible, pursuant to the Constitutions, and to take the Company’s Share by Lot, and you shall not allow any one person whatsoever more than 150 acres thereof without special Leave from the Company, to the end that what is taken up may be the better cultivated and may not be engross’d by a few to the discourage- ment of other industrious people. 13. You shall consent to all such Rules, Ordinances, and Constitutions as you shall judge for the good of the Colony, but shall not suffer any thing to pass to the dammage or detriment of the Company’s honour, power, pro- pertie, or reservations as they are contained in the Constitutions. 14. And whereas, by the Constitutions, all Councellours and Directors of this Company who at any time shall happen to be upon the said Colony, are indefinitely privileged to be Supernumerary Members of your Council; during their stay there, you are hereby ordered not to admitt or acknowledge any of them as such, without a Special Certificate and recommendation from the said Council-general or Court of Directors. 15. You shall not be lyable for any unavoidable loss or dammage (which God Almighty prevent) that may happen by Sea or Land to the effects of this Company committed to your care, but only for fraud or breach of trust, nor shall you be lyable for the actions or deeds of one another, or for those of any person or persons imployed by you in the affairs of this Company by Sea or Land, so as-you do your utmost endeavour for the best as you would do for your Selves. 16. You shall observe and conform yourselves to all other Instructions and Orders as you shall from time to time receive from this Council-General or the Directors of this Company, consonant to the Constitutions of the said Colony. In testimony of all which these presents are Seal’d with the Company’s Seal, 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 57 and sign’d by the Company’s Secretary, in name, presence, and by order of the said Council-General, at Edinburgh, the eight day of July One Thousand Six hundred and Ninty eight years. By order of the said Council-General. Sic subscribitur, Rov. Mackenzig, Sec’y- This is a true copy of our Instructions from the Council-General of the Indian and African Company of Scotland, to which we the several undersub- scribing Councellours of the intended Colony therein mention’d, do sign in token of our acceptance, and do hereby oblige us to regulate ourselves accordingly. As witness our hand, at Leith this 12th day of July 1698. Rost. PENNECUIK. Ropert JOLLY, J. J. MoNTGOMERIE. RoBERT PINCARTON. Dan. Mackay. Wii. VEtTcH. X.—AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COURT OF DIRECTORS AND GILBERT STEWART.* . ARTICLES of AGREEMENT made and concluded att Edinburgh the Seventh Day of September One Thousand six hundred and ninety eight years, Between the Court of Directors of the INDIAN and AFRICAN Company of ScoTLaND on the one part, And GILBERT Stewart merchant in Rotterdam, on the other part, in manner, forme, and to the effect afterspecified, vizt- Imprimis, That the said Court of Directors shall, under the Company’s Seal, grant a permission to the said Gilbert Stewart and such others as shall be co- adventurers, with him to Trade to Africa and the Indies with, one two or three Ships, and no more, without further application made and Leave granted * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. H 58 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. for the same ; And shall withall communicate to the said Gilbert Stewart and his said Co-partners, all the Rights, Priviledges, and immunities which they themselves enjoy by virtue of the Act of Parliament and Letters patent by which the said Company is established ; and that in as full and ample manner as they are anyways priviledged to delegate the same to others and no further ; And if required, to grant Commissions to the Captains or Commanders of the said Ship or Ships, and sign Invoyces and Instructions to the Supercargos or other Officers entrusted with the charge and direction of their respective voyages, under their Seal of office, in the same manner as if the said Ships and Cargos did solely appertain and belong to the said Company ; Which Permis- sions, Commissions, &c. shall continue and be in force till the respective returns of the said several ships to Scotland and no longer. Item, That in consideration thereof, The said Gilbert Stewart shall for him- self and such others as shall be concerned with him in the said Permission- trade, engage that they, their Commanders, Officers, and Servants imployed in the said several voyages, shall strictly observe the tenor of the said Act of Parliament in the true and genuine sense thereof, and shall in no ways pre- judice the Company’s interest by any indiscreet behaviour, but shall be lyable for reparation of such Dammages as the Company shall happen to sus- tain thereby. Item, That the one Twentieth part of the neat produce of all and singular the said Ships and their respective Cargos, shall belong and appertain to the said Company, without advancing any part of the needful Stock, but only for and in consideration of their privileges abovemention’d ; Which Twentieth part aforesaid shall be payable within six months after the respective returns of the said several Ship or Ships to Scotland and the unloading thereof here. But in case it shall so happen, that any of the said Ships shall in their return to Scotland be in case of necessity (as is provided by the said Act of Parlia- ment) forced to break bulk, or Sell the Ships, before their arrival here—Then the said Gilbert Stewart and his copartners shall be bound to account to the Company for the said One Twentieth part of what shall be so disposed of, by production of their several Invoyces, bills of Ladeing, and giving a particular account of the just neat produce thereof upon oath. Item, That one at least of the said three Ships shall be equipped and set to Sea, before-or upon the first of August One Thousand six hundred ninety nine 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 59 years, and the other two before the first of August One thousand and Seven hundred years. ; Item, That the Company may send one or two persons on board each of the said several Ships, to do and act for them as they shall think fitt ; Which said Persons shall always have fourty eight hours notice given them before the said Ships shall set sail from any port or ports during their respective voyages, to the end that they may repair on board, wherein if they fail, after due notice given, the same shall not be imputed to the Undertakers but as a neglect to the said persons only. Item, That one of the said two persons on board of each Ship, shall have his passage and diet at the Captain’s table, free both outward and homeward. bound, with the privilege of having one tunn of Stowage, he paying the ordi- nary freight for the same ; And that the other Passenger shall have the same accommodation and usage with the former, the Company paying fourty pounds sterling in the whole for his diet and passage out and in, and he himself paying for the tunnage as aforesaid. And for the more security, Both parties are content and consent, that these presents be insert and registrate in the Books of Council and Session, or other judges Court books competent within this Kingdom, that Letters of Horning on six days charge only, and others necessar, may be direct hereupon in forme as effeirs ; And to that effect Constitute Their Procurators, &c. In witness whereof (written by Matthew Finlayson one of the said Com- pany’s Clerks) These presents are Seal’d with the Company’s seal and sign’d by the Company’s Secretary, in name, presence, and by warrant of the said Court on the one part, and sign’d by the said Gilbert Stewart for himself and Co-partners foresaid on the other part, place, day, month, and year of God respective abovewritten ; Before these witnesses John Munro Doctor of Medicin, Mr. John Thomson the other Clerk of the said Company, and the said Mat- thew Finlayson. By order of the said Court of Directors. . Rop. Mackenzir, Sec"y- (Signed) Jo. Mungo witness. JOHN THOMSON witness. Mart. FINLAYSON witness. 60 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. XI—MR. ROSE'S JOURNAL.* JourNAL or Diary of the most remarkable things that happened during the Scots Affrican and Indian fleet, in their voyage from the Island of Madera to their landing in America, and since that time. September 2d 1698.—We weighed anchor from Madera road, the Governor having been very civil to us, the Comadore gave him 15 guns, Capt Pinkerton 13, and Capt. Drumond 11, all which he particularly returned with two less. Wee had a fresh breese at E.N.E. and stood away W.S.W. * * % *% * * Sep. 10. This morning wee passed the Tropick of Cancer with a fresh and fair gale, the ships performed the usual ceremony of ducking several of the Ships Crew, who had not passed before ; they were hoisted to the main yard arm, and let down 3 several times with a soss into the sea out over head and ears, their legs being tyed somewhat closs, which was pretty good sport. * * % % % * Sep. 30. Moderate gales and fair weather ; at 6 in the morning wee made the Islands of Antigo and Monsirat, at noon the Island of Redondo, being a small island or rather a rock like the Bass ; bore 8.S.E. halfe a mile distant, and the Island of Mevis* N.W. and B.W. 4 leagues. It is a very pleasant like Island ; the fort hoisted their flag and wee our Colours. 1 October. Moderate gales and fair weather. At 6 last night the west end of St. Christophers bore N.3E. distant 4 leagues. This day at noon the 8.E. end of St Cruze bore W.4N. distant 7 leagues. 2. Yesterday the Council met on board the Comadore, whene it was re- solved that Captain Pinkertoun in the Unicorn, with the Snow, and Mr. Paterson, should be imediately despatched for the Island of St. Thomas, being * From a Scroil—apparently original—in the Miscellaneous Collection. It is endorsed— ‘Mr. Hugh Rose’s Journal in going to Caledonia, and after his arrival there, 1698.” The asterisks denote portions which it has been deemed judicious to ‘omit, as they are of the character of mere log-book entries as to the state of the weather and the like, and possess no interest or importance. ‘ + te. Nevis. 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. Gi a free port of the Danes, in order to get pilots for the Main, and what intelli- gence were possible of the state of Darien. Accordingly at 6 at night they parted from us. Wee steered directly for Crab Island, which wee made in the morning bearing N.W.3 distant 5 leagues. 3d. This morning wee went ashoare and took possession of the Island in the name of the Company of Scotland Trading to Affrica, &c. Wee left some of our people ashoare all night, and stood of to sea, it looking like bad weather, much thunder, lightning, and rain. 4. In the forenoon our men came on board, and wee bore away to Leeward, where is the best anchoring. About halfe an hour past 4, in Frenchman’s bay wee saw a sloop with Danish colours, with a tent on shoare with the same hoisted on the top of it. Wee imediatly stood in and anchored closs by her. The Commadore sent to know quhat she was and her business there, who answered, they were Danes with a Governour and 15 men sent by the Gouernour of St. Thomas, to assert the K. of Denmark’s right to that Island, and to protest against our having any thing to do there. This sloop was dispatched away as soon as possible after Captain Pinkertoun’s arrival there, viz. on Sunday at 2 o’clock, but we landed that morning by 8 ; so that wee told them they came too late. However they offered their protest, as did the Governour of St. Thomas, to Captain Pinkertoun ; this they owned was matter of form, and what they were obliged to do to please the Court ; but wished with all their hearts wee settled there, for then they wold have a bullwark between them and those of Portorico (a rich and large Island and very populous very near) who were very troublesome nieghbouring. These 24 hours wee have had much wind with thunder, lightning, and great rain. Oct. 5. This day Captain arrived with the Snow, and brought one Captain Aletson with him, who freely offered to go along with us to Golden Island. This man is one of the eldest Privateers now alive, and commanded a small ship with Capt. Sharp when they went into the South Sea over the Isthmus ; he was likewayes at the taking of Panama, Portobello, Shagra,* and Carthagena. All the time we stayed here the St. Andrew had a tent on shoare with the Companyes Colours flying on it, and 60 men for a euard when we filled our water. * ¢. e. Chagres. 62 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. This evening came in a Sloop commanded by one Moon. Captain Aletson was concerned in her in 2000 pound. She was loaded with flower, beeffe, and other goods. Wee endeavoured to drive a bargain with him for some provisions, but his prices were too high. Much wind, with great rain, thunder, and lightning. 6 Oct”; The weather continues very bad. The Sloop sailed in the after- noon, being bound to Corassao, and from thence was for Carthagena with slaves; he designs afterward for Portobello, and promised to call at us in passing. 7. At 4 in the morning wee weighed and got under sail, having filled our water, and got our sick men, tent, and guard off from the shoare. At 8 at night wee took our departure from the S.E. end of Portorico bearing W.4N. distant 5 leagues—squaly weather. * * * * % * Oct. 28. This day fair but squales of wind and rain in the night. At 6 last night the Island Ferta* bore E.38. distant 2 leagues. This is a low Island about a mile long, full of trees, which may be seen 7 leagues of ; there is good anchoring on the South side, and very good water. 29. The weather squaly. The other day when at anchor wee tryed the current and found it set N.E. 36 miles in 24 hours. 30. Fair weather. At 6 at night the St. Andrew and Unicorn anchored in a fine sandy bay about 3 leagues to the westward of the gulfe of Darien. There came 2 Canoas with several Indians on board. They were very free and not at all shey. They spoke some few words of English and indifferent Spanish. Wee gave them victuals and drink, which they used very freely, especially the last. In their cups wee endeavoured to pump them, who told they had expected us these two years ; that wee were very welcome, and that all the countrey was at warr with the Spaniard. They got drunk and lay on board all night. In the morning when they went away wee gave each an old hat, a few 2 penny glasses, and knives, with which they seemed extremely pleased. The Caledonia and Snow stood off to sea all night. 31. These 24 hours with land and see breezes. This morning we went in Boats to Carret Bay, which is about 2 leags to the westward of the place * ¢.e. Fuerte. 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. - 63 where wee anchored last in, to view the bay and endeavour to get intelligence of Golden Island ; wee being at a loss, for non of us knew the Land. Here wee met our friends that were aboard, who informed that Golden Island was some few leags further to the westward. Fair weather with land and sea breezes. Nov’ 1. These 24 hours fair weather with land and sea breezes. In the forenoon wee anchored within halfe a mile of Golden Island. In the after- noon wee went in our boats to sound all about Golden Island, which wee did with great exactnes, but found ‘it not convenient for our shipes, there not being room enough about the point of the main for ships of our lenth to swing in. Tis true there is room enough near the Island, but then wee might be attacked by the greatest* either from Eastward or Westward, for they can come in both wayes, nor is ther a drop of water within a mile of the point. On the main and all the bay round full of mangrow and swampy ground, which is very unwholesome. As wee went to sound, wee saw a flag of truce waved in the bottom of the bay. Wee went thither and found about 20 Indians with bowes and lances, but upon our approaching they unstrung their bowes in token of friendship. Wee made one of our men swim ashoare (while we lay off upon our oars) to know their meaning. They desired us to come ashoare but we did not think it fit. Then they told us that to morrow one of their greatest Captains wold be on board of us—so we parted. 2d. This morning according to what was said, came on board one Captain Andreas with 10 or a dozen along with him. He inquired the reason of our coming hither and what wee designed. Wee answeared, our design was to settle among them if they pleased to receive us as friends, our business was trade, and that we wold supply them from time to time with such comodities as they wanted, at much more reasonable rates than either the Spaniard or any other could do. He inquired if wee were friends to the Spaniard. Wee made answear that wee had no warr with any Nation; that if the Spaniard did offer us no affront nor injury, wee had nothing to say to them ; but otherwayes wee wold make open war with them. This they seem’d pleased with all, still beleeving us to be privateers, and our design upon the South Sea. He began to run out upon the praises of Captain Swain and Captain Davies, two English * Sic in MS. 64 ; * THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. privateers, who he said were his particular friends, and whom he knew in the South Sea. Wee received it coldly, and assured him wee were upon no design, beleeving it to be a pump as wee found by the mens conversation. Wee gave him a hat braded with broad gold galloo, with some toyes, so wee parted for that time. He (as generally all the people are) is of a small stature. In his garb he affects the Spaniard, as also in the gravity of his Cariage. He had a loose red stuff coat on, with an old hat, a pair of white drawers, but no shoes nor stockens. Those that were with him were stark naked, only a threed tyed round their midles, to make fast another to that kept on a small peece of plate upon the end of their yards, made like the small end of an extinguisher ; this is alwayes made either of silver or of a certain leafe of a tree, and all weare it above 14 years of age. Nov’: 3d. Yesterday in the afternoon, wee went in our boats to sound a bay about 4 miles to the eastward of Golden Island, and found it a most excellent harbour. The harbour is within a great bay lying to the westward of it, made by Golden Island and a point of land bearing from thence east about a league. From that eastmost point to the opposit one, is a random cannon shot, and in the middle of the entry lyes a rock about 3 foot above the water, on which the Sea beats furiously, when the wind is out and blowes hard. This looks terrible (when in the bay) to those who know not the place well, but in both sides of this rock is a very good and wide Channel, that to the south- ward being about 3 cable-lenth breadth, with 7 fathom water closs to the rocks nose, and the other to the northward near 2 cables lenth. There is a small rock under water, a litle within the points bearing off of the southermost S.S.W. and -of the northermost 8.S8.E. and of the rock without S.E. & B.E. From these two outwardmost points, the harbour runs away east a good league, and near the midle on the right hand the land sets out, so that its not a musquet shot over, and thus farr there is not less than 6 fathom water with very good easy ground, and here you ride landlocked every way that no wind can possibly hurt you. Within this to the bottom of the harbour, till within a cables lenth of the shoare, wee have not less than 3 fathom water, nor can a hurrycane make the least sea there. The land on the left hand coming in is a peninsula, and about 3 miles long, very high and steep towards the Sea, where it will be extreamly difficult for any body to land till ye come to the Isthmus, where is a small sandy bay. Small ships may ride but this by 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 65 a good ditch and fort may safely be secured. The westermost point towards the harbour is low and very fit for a battery to command the entry, which wold be excellently secured by another on tlie opposit shoar. The land on the Pen-Insula is extraordinary good, and full of stately trees fit for all uses, and full of pleasant birds, as is also the opposit shoare, and hath several small springs which wee hope will hold in the dryest season. But on the other side there are 4 or 5 fine rivers that neverdodry. This harbour is capable of containing 1000 of the best ships in the world, and with no great trouble wharfs may be run out to which ships of the greatest burthen may lay their sides and unload. This morning Captain Andreas came on board again with his traveling wife, having in all four. Polygamy being here allowed, every one may have as many as he can maintain. He was still on the pump as to our design, but when he found our account all of a peece, he told us that the English after they had been very friendly with them, had several times caryed away their people, and that was the reason that Captain Pedro (whom he promised to bring aboard with him, when last here) wold not ventur till,he were better assured of our integrity. He likewayes told us that there were some French who lived among the Indians towards the Samblous* to the westward. Fair weather. This day wee landed and took possession. Novt- 4. The weather fair, with land and sea breeses. This forenoon wee weighed and got in to the harbour, but the Unicorn unhappily struck on that sunken rock within the heads, and beat of some of her sheathing. There were 40 men sent from each ship to clear away and make huts for our sick men. 5. Wee sent all our sick ashoare, and sent 30 men more from each ship to clear away. The Council met and went to view the most proper place for a Fort. Fair weather. 6. Fair weather. This morning arrived a canao with one Frenchman, 2 Creolians of Martinico, and 4 Indians ; as also a periager with Captain Am- brosio and Captain Pedro, who live about 16 leagues to the westward. These Frenchmen have lived 4 yearis with these Indians, and one of the most sensible of them speaks their language perfectly, who gave us the following account, viz. That the storyes of King Panco Rosa and Golden Cape, were * 7 e. San Blas, commonly called Samballas. I 66 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. mere fables. That indeed there was about 50 years ago, one who by his valour and conduct against the Spaniard had acquired so great a reputation that they made him comander in chieff of all their united forces ; but he had no sooner got the power into his hand than he became a most barbarous tyrant, and often for his pleasure wold cut of the heads of his bravest Captains. And what yet troubled them more, he wold allow no men besides himselfe but one wife, which they by no means could endure, so they set upon in the night and murdered him ; since which time they never allowed any one to be greater than his fellowes, only in time of danger the wisest and bravest among them within their several districts is chose as their Captain for the time, and those now allowed to be so are as followes. Captain Diego comands from the bottom of the gulph of Uraba on this side to Carret Bay, and has about 3000 men under his comand. He is esteemed the most powerful among them ; he has been at warr with the Spaniard about 12 moneths. The occasion of it was thus. The Indians having found 3 gold mines within his Jurisdiction, 2 whereof small and a very great vein, consulted with themselves what to do, and being sensible that they did not understand to work them, concluded to discover them to the Spaniard provided they wold allow them such a share of the profit. This was agreed to and faithfully promised by the Spaniard, but no sooner had the Indians showen them, but they shut up two of them, and set strong guards upon them, and fell to work upon the third, of which the Indians demanding their share they bet and abused them, calling them their slaves, and threatened to exterminate them, which provocked them so that a litle time after, they seised upon 20 Spaniards and 3 priests, and cut them to peeces. Next to Diego is one Captain Paussigo of Carret bay. He is one of the Indian Clergymen, and comands that part of the Coast that lyes between Carret Bay and Golden Island, he is but a small Captain, and brother in law to Andreas. The Peninsula which wee possess, and which wee found unin- habited, nor has it been ever by any heretofore that wee can hear of, lyes between him and Captain Andreas. From Golden Island to the river Pinas, about a league to the westward of Isle of Pinas, Andreas and his brother Pedro comand ; they are greater than Paussigo, but not so powerful as Diego, yet their united interest by consan- guinity, together with the vicinity of their comand to our setlement, makes 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 67 their friendship of greatest consequence. These people have had a good cor- respondence for several years past with the Spaniard, and have suffered some of them to reside among them, to give an account to Panama by land from time to time, who were upon this coast. But about two moneths before our arrival here, Captain Ambrosio, who has the adjoining comand, forced them to enter into the common confederacy and cut of 10 Spaniards who lived on the main of Golden Island. We distinguish it thus by reason that the natives call all the main opposit to the Island by the same name that it bears. About a league from the water side there is a high mountain wherein they assure us are several mines of excellent gold. The Spaniards are very sensible of that, and have from time to time taken great care (by fair or foul means) never to’ let them be opened, wel knowing that being so near the North Sea, that they wold have the least share of them. This Andreas has often been at Panama, the mines of St Maria, and in the South Sea. The Spaniards beleeving he might be useful to them made him a Captain, by giving him a stick tipt with _ silver, upon which he values him selfe above others, and that was wee are apt to beleeve endear’d him in some measure, yet the love of one’s Countrey and * liberty is so natural that wee have great reason to beleeve that as soon (being a sensible and cunning fellow) as he is satisfyed wee are able to protect him, he will certainly join in our interest. The French mortaly hate him for having betrayed some of their nation to the Spaniard while they were at peace with them. | From the river Pinas, Captain Ambrosio commands the rivers Bononos, Mango, and Cocost, to the Samblous. He is a man about 60, but strong and vigorous, a mortal enemy to the Spaniard with whom he has had a long warr ; he is esteemed the bravest and most successful of their Comanders upon all occasions. He is of a midle sise, wel made, strongly limb’d, and of a grate and somewhat stern countenance. He has a sone in law one Pedro a brisk litle fellow. He speaks good Spanish, having been kept slave to them at Panama for several years, and who can never forget nor forgive their usage of him there. He likewayes speaks very good French, having lived sometime at Petitguavis. He has as much of the French gaity as Andreas of the Spanish gravity, and is a good friend to the French whom they are made to beleeve have a design speedily to setle near them, and wee have reason to beleeve the same if wee had not prevented them. This Pedro is highly esteemed by Ambrosio and 68 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. all his people, whose daughter he has to wife as also two of his daughters by himself, which is allowed here, yet it seems they believe it a crime, since if they have any children durin the life of the mother, the children are buried alive, which is very strange that the innocent should suffer for the guilty. They pressed us very hard to come and live by them, as also jointly to make warr with the Spaniard, whom they wold engage upon the forfeiture of their heads, if wee wold but assist them but with one hundred men and as many arms, with 2000 of their own people, to drive them not only out of all the mines which are but 3 days jurney from us, but even out of Panama it selfe. We gave them fair words and promised to go to the westward with them to view the coast, and if there were any convenient harbour for our’ Shipping wee should be their neighbours. ene The Samblous to the river Conception is comanded by one Corbet, who is- altogether i in the French interest, and wee have the following account of him. About 7 years ago there being aboundance of French privateers about the Samblous, this Corbet and they contracted a particular friendship, and he did them many good offices. They in return told him that if he wold go to Petit- guavis, the Governour there Monst- Du Cass would make him amends for all ~_ his favours to them. He resolves upon it, and away he goes in a French vessel, but chanced to be taken by an English privateer and caryed to Jamaica, where he and two Indians more were sold for slaves. As soon as Monsieur Du Cass was informed of this, he sent to the Governour of Jamaica, who at his desire imediatly released them, sent them to Petitguavis, from whence they took the opportunity of a French privateer bound for the Samblous, and turned home ; they were prisoners in Jamaica about 7 Moneths. Corbet continued rambling with the privateers, and made another trip to Petitguavis, where he had not been long when Monsieur Ponti arrived, with whom he went to Carthagena. When Monsieur Ponti presented him with goods (which wee suppose were useless to him) to the value of 2000 Crowns, Monsieur Du Cass Governour of Petitguavis, who accompanied Monsieur Ponti in that expedition, gave him a Commission as general of all the French and Indian forces on the coast of Darien, to take, sink, and destroy the Spaniard or any other enemy. Notwithstanding this large Commission, both the French and more sensible Indians have no opinion of [his] capacity, courage, or con- stancy, for.he has a correspondence under hand with the Spaniard which they 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 69 do not like ; But Ambrosio, who all allow to be most daring and brave, as also the most faithful to his promise, being a true friend and most inveterate enemy, keeps him within bounds. Next to Corbet from the river Conception is one Nicola, a man who speaks Spanish as wel as any natural Spaniard, having been bred for above a dozen of years of his youth among them ; he likewayes reads and writes it perfectly, and understands the state of Kurope very wel, which no other of them has any notion of. He is said to be wise and brave, extreamly beloved by his people for his justice and good nature, in so much that there have been designs to cut off Ambrosio to place him in his room,. for the last is of a rough military - temper, and often upon slight pretences makes bold to take from them what they have. However if they do not love him they fear him, and his near alliance and strict friendship with Diego in the Gulph, a powerful and old gallant fellow, renders him secure. This Nicola was in good terms with the Spaniard till about 12 moneths ago. A trifle made him break with them, and it was thus. He had got an excellent French fuzee from a buckaneer which he valued extreamly ; it was somewhat out of order, nor did he know how to put it to rights again. A Spanish Don from Portobell being at his house told him he wold carry it with him and get it mended, which the other consenting to, with a desire that it might be returned as soon as possible, they parted. The Done shewed it to the Governour who lik’d it extreamly, and said it was too good for a heathen who kept correspondence with the French, so he ordered an old rousty match to be sent in lieu thereof. This he took so heinously that he fell upon the Spaniards whereever he found them and cut them off, nor is he to be reconciled to them; his command reaches from the river Conception to the Spanish border. Thus wee parted with the French- man, whom we treated with all possible civility ; they went home to Ambrosio’s and promised to return in 5 or 6 days. Nov. 7. The weather fair, with small breeses. Our people are imployed. in making of huts and clearing away ground. 8. The wind and weather as above. There hath been a great number of Indians on board ships, whom wee use very kindly, and who consume a great deal of liquor. 9. The weather as above. 70 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. 10. This day Captain Andreas dined on board the Comadore with his first wife and his sister ; they are generally of a small sise as wel as the men, their features are indifferent (bating their colour) only their eyes are somewhat too small. They had a single cloath wrapt about them in form of a peticoat made of cotton, with a sort of a linen mantle about their shoulders, a great’ many beads about their necks and arms, with large gold rings put through the gristle that divides their nostrils ; they are very submissive to their husbands, who notwithstanding are very kind to them. They told there had been a skirmish between the Indians of the Gulph and the Spaniard. That the last had killed about 20 men, and had taken as many women for slaves. That they knew of our being here and were exceeding angry with them for pane friendship with us. Fair weather. 11. The people ashoare are imployed in making of huts, clearing way, ke. and those on board in ordering their holds, overhauling their rigging, block- sails, &e. 12. Much rain in the night. 13. Much rain in the morning. Wee saw a ship Saturday to the westward, which wee beleeved to be Captain Lang in the Rupert prize, who wee heard was in the Gulph of Uraba. 14. Wee had sharp showers of rain with ‘dss wind round the compass. 15. It has rained very hard, and gusts of wind. This evening Captain Lang in his boat came to visit us. 16. Captain Lang dined on board the Comadore. Much rain and thunder, — which hinders our work. 17. Captain Lang dined on board Captain Pinkertoun. In the evening Lang’s boat went to his Sloop which lay at the Isle of Pinas. Much thunder, lightning, and rain. 18. This morning Captain Lang and Captain Pinkertoun went for the Isle of Pinas. 19. At 8 o’clock this morning Major Cunninghame, Mr. Mackay, and Captain Pennycuik, set out to the westward, and about 4 in the afternoon got on board Captain Lang, where they with Capt: Pinkertoun stayed all night, it blowing hard so that our longboats could not thither till next morning. Much rain, fresh gales of wind, thunder and lightning. 20. About 8 in the morning our longboats got up, together with Captain 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 71 Pedro in his periager. What others have found or may think of Lang wee know, but he appears to us to be of no great reach ; he has a full and ample comission, his principal design it seems was to find out wrecks and to fish. He own’d and so did all his people that his boat had not been so much as been ashoare in any place betuixt the gulfe and the Isle of Pinas, nor had he any conversation with those people, so that he can have no pretence upon our settlement. Wee left him about 10 o’clock, he said he was bound for Jamaica. This night the Councilours lay in a litle bay about 2 leagues to the westward of the river Pinas. In the night time a fresh gale variable and some small showers. Nov": 21. In the morning they weighed and sounded all along the coast, and about noon found a most excellent harbour about 4 leagues to the west- ward of where they lay all night, capable of containing 10,000 sail of ships. It is made by an elbow of the main to the Eastward, and a range of keys about it, 10 in number, running to the Eastward above 2 leagues. To one of those called Laurence Key the greatest ship in England may lay her side to. Here the privateers used to carreen, but the inconveniency of that place is that ships may not only come in both from the Eastward and Westward, but between several of the keyes, so that it can not be defended without a great many forts as wel as men. After they had surveyed this bay they got to the river Coco. About 4 o'clock they landed and went to Ambrosio’s house, which is a good league from the water side. It stands upon the banks of this river with about 10 or a dozen lesser houses about it. Their houses are on the sea hand inaccessible in a manner, being so advantageously situat that no stranger can come at them that way by reason of the numerous unseen shoalds, small rocks, and banks. When they came near, Ambrosio advanced about 50 pace with 20 followers, all cloathed in white loose frocks with fringes round the bottoms, and lances in their hands. He saluted them very kindly, and gave them a calabash full of liquor almost like lambswool, which they call Mischlew, being made of Indian corn and potatoes; this they get drunk with all often. Before the house about 20 paces it was very smooth and clean; the house was about 90 foot long 35 in breadth and 30 in hight ; it was curiously thatched with palmetto royal, and over that, Cajan leaves ; the floor was of a firm earth like Tarras, very smooth and clean; the sides were of large canes about the bignes of a 72 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. man’s leg, and near an inch asunder. In this house lived Ambrosio and Pedro with their whole familyes, in all about 40 persons. There was an old woman who was very stirring about the house, she seem’d to be near 60, but upon asking her age the Frenchman ‘told she was about 120. They could not beleeve it, and were perswaded they were mistaken in the computation of time ; he assured them not, and as an undenyable demonstration shewed the sixt generation of that womans body in the house, which indeed was very surprising. She is Pedroes grandmother ; when it was assured that it was common among them to live to 150 or 160 years age, yet its observed that those of them that converse often with the Europeans and drink their strong liquor are of short life. Nov. 22. In the morning they had some plantans, potatoes, and wild tn dresst for breakfast, after their fashion. Then Ambrosio and Pedro went out with their guns to kill some fowl for the strangers. Pedro returned with some partriges the largest and best ever they saw, being bigger than capons, and exceedingly sweet. They being afraid it wold be late took leave er Ambrosio returned, Pedro and the Frenchman conyeying them to the water side. They lay that night at the eastermost of the keyes mentioned before. Pedro did climb high cocornut trees and threw doun a great number most delicious for the juyce and kernel. They are very big. This Pedro is incredibly dexterous at the bow and arrow, which he show’d them by shooting frequently in one place ; they learn their boyes to shoot with blunt arrowes. — 23. By day light they weighed and got to the Isle of Pinas with their pinaces by noon, and at night home. Captain Lang sailed the Sunday before. 24. Much wind and rain. 25. Wind and rain as above. 27. Very much rain and wind. 28. These 24 houres ther has fallen a prodigious quantity of rain. 29. Much rain with fresh gales. 30. This being St. Andrew’s day, the Councilors dined on board the Coma- dore, where Captain Andreas was invited, who being inquired at anent his having any correspondence with the Spaniard as was reported, he ingenuously confessed that the Spaniards had been friendly to him and had made him a Captain ; that he was obliged for his safty to keep fair with them ; and that 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 73 they assured him wee were nothing but privateers who had no design to setle, but to plunder both Spaniard and Indians and be gone in 2 or 3 moneths time; and if that he assisted us any way, aS soon as wee were gone they should destroy him and his. He got all possible assurance of the contrar, which he appeared to be fully satisfyed with, and desired a Comission, and to be taken under the protection of our Government with his followers, upon which he should give all his right to this part of the Country, which relished wel enough. He went away and promised to return in 2 or 3 dayes. December 1. Much thunder, lightning, and rain. 2. The weather continoues very bad which hinders the work much. 3. Great showers of rain with much wind. Captain Andreas came this day on board the St. Andrew where the Counciloris were. He had his Comission read to him, and expounded in Spanish, whereby the Council made him one of their Captains to comand the Natives in and about his own terri- tories, and received him and all submitting to him into the protection of their Government, he being therby obliged with his followers to obey, assist, and defend them and all their concerns upon all occasions. To all which he heartily agreed and seemed very wel satisfyed. Then the Preses of the Council for the time, did in presence of the Councilours and several others and some of Andreas people, deliver him his Commission written on parce- ment, with the Colonyes Seal and very broad gold stript and flour’d ribben appended, joyning hands together he promising to be just and faithful to us and our interest. He had at that time given him a broad basket hilted sword and a pair of good pistols, with which he promised to defend us all to the last drop of his blood against our Enemyes. He presented the Council with a bow and a*bunch of arrowes as a token of his kindnes and friendship. Then he and those with him got a hearty glass, and at drinking the Company at home their health, 7 guns were fired, which he took as a great favour ; he stayed on board all night. December 4. Much thunder, lightning, and rain. 5. Some wind and rain. 6. Showres of rain with squales of wind. The sones of Captain Diego and Captain Ambrosio came and stayed with us 4 or 5 dayes. The natives come evry other day with plantans and yams ; K 74 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. the comon people among us buy them from them and give them small trifles for them, which they are wel satisfyed with. 7. Blustering weather with some showres. 8. Wind and weather as above. 9. Wind Northerly. Sometimes most excellent fish taken here, as also Tortoises, (but very few as yet, not having time nor nets fit for them,) some of them above 2, others above 300 weight: they are the best of meat. One of them will serve 100 men of reasonable appetites. 10. There is excellent Cedar trees in great aboundance, as also Mahopinaith Yellow Sanders, Lignum vite, Manchinill excellent for inlaying, and many others of great use. There are hopes of finding out the Nicoragu the best of lit for Scarlet, as also Banileos is here in great quantity, an excellent perfume and much used in the fimest Cocholat, as also in this Countrey excellent fruits, such as Cocoa nuts wherof Cocholat is made. Vanelias, Sugar Canes, Mayis, Oranges, Plantans, Bonanos, Yams, Manioc and several others all very good, the ground very fertile and rich. 11. This morning came on board the Commadore a French longboat, with the Lieuetenent of the Ship she belonged to, and the purser of a Dutch. The ship to which the Lievetennent belonged is named the Zantoigne of 42, (had but 32 mounted,) commanded by Monsieur Vite Thomas. The Dutch ship was one of 22 guns, a trader upon the Coast. The Frenchman reported he came out in company with those that returned the Church plate to Cartha- gena. She is a Merchant ship, but has the King’s Comission, and halfe the Company payed by the King ; he was very lakey, so begg’d liberty to stop his lakes in our port which wee freely granted. The Dutch Ship being afraid of the Barlivento fleet kept him company, and likewayes desired our pro- tection. She is richly loaded and has been upon the coast some time, yet has most of her cargo still on board, being bound to the coast of Carthagena. She must be here till the Barlivento fleet pass for Porto Bello. 12. This morning the French ship anchored near Golden Island, and the Dutchman came into the harbour, directly he saluted the Commadore with 7 guns who returned him 5. In the afternoon the French Captain came on board; he told us all the newes on the Coast, That the President of Panama had given an account to the Governours of Carthagena and Porto Bello of our “arrival and setlement. 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 75 The Spaniards along the whole Coast are in a wonderful consternation upon the matter. He told that 18 dayes ago one Whan Bernardo (a very rich and honest man) was sent with a long boat and 37 men by the Governour of Carthagena with a Comission to know what wee were and our design here ; he was told there was nothing heard of him, so the Frenchman concluded the boat was sunk, being so old and lakey that she could hardly swim. He furder said that there were 4 sail of Ships about 50 guns each newly come from Spain, whereof the Dartmouth an English man of warr of 52 guns taken by the French was one ; that they beleeved our design was upon the river Meschasippi, so were gone into the gulph of Mexico to seek us. That the Barlivento fleet was now at Carthagena consisting of 3 sail, viz. the General of 56 guns, one of 36 and another of 28 guns, the Vice Admiral of 40 guns being gone with a Dutch Ship of 32 guns whom they made prize, as also 2 English Sloops, for trading upon the Coast to Veracruze. That Mexico was all in a Confusion, for upon advice of the King of Spain’s indisposition, Count Mountezuma Vice Roy and of the race of these great Emperours, had made such an interest that it is not doubted but that he will speedily set up for himselfe. Carthagen has likewayes been in a civil warr, which is only covered, not quenched. ; At Porto Bello about 700 slaves got into a body, which in a little time increased to above 1500. The Governour did all he could to suppress them, but they being supplyed with arms and ammunition from the French, English, and Dutch traders, it was not in his power to suppress them, so was forced to come to very dishonourable terms ; To wit, to allow them to be a free people independent of the Spaniards, and only to be called their friends, So that hundreds of them might been [seen in] Porto Bello struting and taking the right hand of their Masters, who dared not to say it was ill done ; this agree- ment is said.to have been made about 8 moneths ago, and showes the weak condition the Spanish Empire is in, in this new world. The French have been very industrious in promoting their interests here, both with the Natives and Spaniard, which they have cultivated to a great degree, nor is it to be doubted that they will push fair for a great share of these Countreys upon the King of Spain’s death. Dec’r. 13. In the afternoon the French ship came in, he saluted the Com- madore with 9 guns who returned (he having the King’s Comission and 76 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. Colours) the same number, then 3 of thanks ; he had also the like return, then one, and then like to that. . 14. This day Captain Lang’s boat came into the harbour and told us he sailed for Jamaica on Sunday last, that he had left 3 men and a woman with Captain Diego in the gulph, and that the Barlivento fleet consisting of several sail of great ships and aboundance of small veshels full of souldiers, were lying at the Burus taking in provisions in order to attack with all their strength in afew days. This obliges us to make all dispatches with our battery. The Council have ordered their ships in a line of battle in the mouth of the har- bour. Fair weather. 15. Captain Andreas sent word that the Spaniards were marching from Panama to Porto Bello, with a great number of men in order to attack us. 16. Several other Indians came in and gave the same account. The battery is going quickly on; our men are very hearty and seem to long for a visit from Jaque, that they might have a just pretence to their gold mines not farr off. 17. There is a look out made from which ships or vessels within 10 leagues can be descryed. 18. Fair weather, the fortification near finished. 19. This morning one of the men whom Captain Lang left totaallid the gulfe, with a boy and two Indians, came in a canoa and told that a Spanish periager landing where they were, the Indians and they set upon them, and killed 7 of them ; this was found fault with [by] us, least Lang’s men should be thought ours and so wee thought to be the first breakers of peace. It was also told here that Lang had been a dayes jurney from his ship among the Spanish Indians, on purpose to misrepresent us, calling us thieves and robbers and disbanded souldiers not ouned or protected by the King of England. This day the battery was finished, 16 twelve pounders being snonpted on it, and wee are now in such a condition as that nothing more is wished than a visit from Jaque. 20. The French ship came out and anchored by our Ship at the mouth of the harbour. Fair, and wind at N.B.E. . 21. Some sharpe showres of rain and a fresh gale as above ; Tiacenelioiels are making. 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 77 22. The Frenchman warpt out a little without us. Captain Paussigo of Carret bay, who is hearty and cordial to our interest, came and among other things told, that close by about 2 miles distant only, there were several gold mines, which he promised to shew, and did let some of the Councilors see few parcels of gold which he affirmed he got from thence, which was extraor- dinary fine. 23. Fair weather. Captain Ambrosio being upon this place tells that the Spaniard are marching with 600 of them and 200 of the South sea Indians, (who can travel through the woods,) to attack us in the night if possible, but its feared with us they will not come, but whatever be in it, the work goes wel on, the men working with much vigour and resolution. Ambrosio has been very kindly and civily used and a present given him. The French have strangely insinuated into the favour of the Samblous Indians, and chiefly through the means of Pedro, Ambrosio’s sone in law, who is wholly French, and was to have gone with this Ship to Petitguavis if not to the court of France. Nothing in our opinions hath hindered them from setling on this Coast er this time, but the expectation of the King of Spain’s death. But seeing us here, with which they were strangely surprised, they beleeve it high time to delay no longer; however our satisfaction is that neither Andreas nor that Pedro who are our neighbours have any manner of friendship for them. If they setle among the Samblous with the pretensions they have to the Crown of Spain, the English and Dutch must both look about them, for their trade on this coast (which is very great) will be utterly lost, and wee are apt to beleeve the first will make their enmity give way to their interest, and reither close with us than suffer so powerful and trouble- some a neighbour to fix here without opposition. This day came in a small sloop loaded with flower, beefe, &c. from Jamaica. The Comander was sent by Captain Moon who is mentioned before, the Cargo “was consigned to Captain Aletson. 24. In the morning early the+French ship got under sail—the Council not having ended their dispatches for Scotland which they designed by her. Cap- tain Pennycook went in his pinnace to know whether he designed to come to an anchor at Golden Island or put directly to sea. The Captain had drunk prety hard the night before with Pedro Ambrosio and some other of the Sam- blous’ Indians, so that he was then asleep. The wind had blown hard at 78 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. No- and there came in a great sea, and with all it fell litle wind, so that she fell away to leeward a great pace, where was nothing but an Iron shoare. She had certainly been stranded on the first point, had not Captain Penny- cuik made his boat get ahead and tow her. She weathered that point not twenty fathom, then was obliged to anchor in a little bay. At the Captain’s desire, Captain Pennycuik sent for a long boat, an anchor, and cable, with all the pinnaces to row them out, but stayed himselfe to assist what was possible, and at the Captain’s earnest desire promised to stay by him as long as he kept the ship ; for the sailors being all hot headed since the night before, did not mind what their Captain said to them. The ship did ride about 3 quarters of an hour after they anchored, and then her best bower cable broke, and in halfe an hour after the small bower gave way, so ashoare she went upon the rocks, where in halfe an hour she was all to peeces, no boat daring to come near her. Captain Pennycuik was as good as his promise and stayed till he saw the Captain (who could not swim) upon a raft and gone, then took his opportunity and swam ashoare, having received some small wounds and bruises from the wreck and rocks, the sea beating on them furiously. There were 22 out of 56 drowned—tis said many of them occa- sioned by the weight of gold and money they had about their necks (having broke up chests); others beatt to peeces upon the rocks after they had swam ashoare. The Captain had in his round house in Gold and Silver to the value of 60,000 peeces of eight, and in goods not disposed of to the value of 30,000 Crowns. 25. The French Captain and Lieuetennent went on board the Commadore, being both extreamly bruised. The men were dispersed into the several ships. Officers and men were sent to guard the wreck. 26. Fair weather and a good gale at N.B.E. 27. This morning the French Captain went with two divers belonging to the Ship to see what could be got from the wreck. He gets all possible assistance to save all that comes ashoare. ~ 1698. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 79 XIL—LETTERS RELATING TO THE PLANTING OF THE FIRST COLONY. Hector Macxenziz to Mr. Haupave of Gleneagles.* From on board the Ship Unicorn in Caledonia Bay, December 21, 1698. Sir, Ever since I had the honour of your acquaintance, must account my self fortunate in having also the happiness, at all times, of your favour and countenance ; the very thoughts of which even, prompts my desire to embrace this opportunity of making thus gratefull acknowledgment of the same, which is the most suitable recompence that I can think of, to civilities of that kind, only a full assurance of my being resolved to improve my self as much as possibly I can in the advancement of your interest, by doing you service whether in general or particular as you please to command me. I am ashamed, Sir, to give you this trouble with so little variety consider- ing so great a distance ; however will in short say something concerning our voyage hither, and our present place of abode. We had at the beginning pretty blustering foggy and troublesome weather untill we passed the Northern Islands of Scotland, after which we had as pleasant and favourable a passage -as could be desired by Sea-fareing men untill we came to Crabb-Island (which is adjoyning to Porto-Rico) where we took in, I am perswaded, very unwholesome water, as did evidently appear by a general distemper that seized most yea almost all our people, without respect of persons, upon our drinking thereof. This affected the Ship Unicorn in some measure more particularly than any of the other Ships, being obliged to take up the water from a standing unsettled puddle that received it from the adjacent hills, unknown woods, Shrubbs, plants, &c. and all for the most part in a very deludge of rain; this being the beginning of the rainy Season to us, the which continues to this day, and that pretty severely, till within twelve dayes past. The occasion of the aforesaid hurry would be too tedious to insert, so will leave it to proceed; our passage from the Crabb, which was very * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. 80 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1698. tedious, and our reigning distemper being a violent flux, made it appear much more unpleasant. Since our departure from Scotland, we lost to the number of fifteen persons old and young, mongst whom were Leiy+ Hugh Hay, Mr. Adam Scott, and Mrs. Paterson ; a particular List is sent by the Comadore, many of us being sufficiently wearied with this unexpected passage from the Crabb (occasioned by Calms, rains, contrary winds and sickness.) We arrived here the second day of November, where we found a very commodious Bay or rather Harbour, capable of containing a great many good Ships, naturally defended from Winds and Storms, by the benefitt of several small hills and rising grounds which environ it upon all sides, (the mouth or entrance only excepted, which is but narrow, not being a full mea- sured mile between the two opposite points, and even that indifferently well bomb’d over with a ridge of Sunken rocks.) The entrance and main body of the harbour ly towards the Sea North North West, and towards the land South South East. It is in 9 degrees of North Latitude, and about some 704 of meridian dist. from St. Kilda upon the coast of Scotland, notwithstanding which we cannot as yet complain of any extraordinary heat, being frequently fan’d with moderat gales of both Sea and Land breezes, which gives me reason to beleive that in this place will be as temperate and healthfull an ayre as can be expected anywhere upon this continent of the Southern America. The Soile every where promises a vast incress of whatever is either sowed or planted therein. It is likewise very plentifully watered with aboundance of* good wholesome fresh water, and every where covered over with almost in- credible quantities of large straight well grown timber, (without anything of Savanna or grass plot fit for pasturage,) which by unanimous consent is taken for a testimony of fertility wheresoever it be found. All which being con- ‘sidered, we have no reason to doubt but that the Situation of the place will be delightfull and pleasant eneugh, whenever the ground is cleared and regularly planted: Moreover here is plenty and variety of choice fish, fowl, pickery or wild hogg, and I beleive vanison, to be hade whenever we can be in a condition to look after such things, yet of the latter I must needs say that Monkies and Baboones are the best and choisest that we have hitherto met with. I very heartily wish that a mistaken notion of such a prospect may not occasion the old mother to obliyiate her new born babe before it be fit for weaning and in a condition of doing for it self. Sir, notwithstanding 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 81 my presumption in sending this, ].am not ignorant that you shall have a more particular account, and that from more discriminating and decerning hands. In the mean time I am very hopefull that this will be taken, as it is design’d by him who wishes you a very happy and healthfull new year, and will be always, Sir, . Your very much obliged humble Servant, (sic subscribitur) Hector MAcKENZIE. Captain Lone’s Lerrer from Jamaica, concerning the Scots settling in Caledonia, 1699.* His Matie’s instructions were so large to me as to give me leave to go to any part of America not possess’d by Christians, to discover gold or other treasures, upon which it bred a thought in me to go for the Gulph of Darien, if I could any way contrive to make a peace with the Indians. An accident happen’d while I was in Port Morant harbour in this place, which was that an English sloop brought in a parcel of Frenchmen who had lived in the Darien Country, but it was in the east part of the Samballas, and those Darien Indians are great lovers of the French, but the Natives of Darien who live in the gulph, have had a long warr with those of Samballas and the Isle Pines, and about seven or eight months past concluded a peace. This I understand by the French : considering I had now a fitt opportunity to make peace with the Indians over all the countrey of Darien, I presently press’d one of the English seamen, telling him the service I expected from him when I brought him to the Samballas, knowing very well he could bring me to the speech of those Indians amongst whom the French had lived, which he did by kind usage and some presents. So that all along the coast of Darien the Indians came and invited me, for they had recommended me along the shoar before I could arrive at the intended place. The gulph was what I aim’d at, and design’d up the great River that runns with turnings and windings not less * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. Captain Long is evidently the same person who is called Captain Lang, supra, p. 70. L 82 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. than 200 leagues up one branch of it ; its but twelve hours travel to the South Sea, but t’was my lot to be there in the time of rains, the freshes running so rampant that I could not get up the river. The Countrey of Darien is about 60 leagues in length. It ends about 16 or 20 leagues up the Great River, and is there separated by a River called Key Crika, that is on the west of the great River, and empties itself into it, and the countrey of the Dariens ends about the middle of the Samballas. On the east side of the gulph lives a Nation called Orabas, with some Dariens amongst them. I was amongst this people also and was courteously received, these two Nations joyning together against the Spaniard and their friends up in the countrey ; a vast way up this great River lives a Nation of Indians they call Chokcows. In that countrey are rich gold mines some the Spaniards work in, and many more there are of which the Spaniards know nothing, as the Dariens inform me; but the Chokcows have warr with them and the Orabas, and come often down the River in moon light nights to surprize their enemies, their enemies serving them in the same manner. The Dariens gave me an account what rich gold mines the Spaniard ! has i in their countrey five days travel from whence our ship lay, called the gold mines of Cany. There wrought on the greatest 800 Negroes, and there were imployed in the lesser 100 or 200 in each ; at a distance from them were two mines of gold more found, but they wrought not on them haying not people enough. I judge for good reasons that the Dariens in the Gulph have a gold mine to themselves separate from what the Spaniards have, but are willing to conceal it ; they are very politick but sloathfull people, telling me they would not work in a mine for the sake of gold; and that the mines of Cany had not been found above 8 or 10 years, and that the Spaniards not only pick it out of the rivers after rains, but digg it out of the hills with iron tools in lumps at many places. ae I took this voyage in hand with great hopes I should do this His Maties ser- vice, not knowing what might arise upon the death of the King of Spain, which common belief and report of the world suppos’d very near or other- ways, and also to intercept the acquaintance of the French with the Natives, that they might be in His Matis service if any occasion whatsoever should happen. I returned foo 4 the gulph in order to Beg on my other intended 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 83 voyage, and stopt at the Isle of Pines, and upon the 13th of November at night understood by the Indians and one man I had at pledge amongst them, that the Scots were arrived to settle and lay in Carret Harbour, about five or six leagues from me and about 2 leagues to the south east of Golden Island. I next day visited them, who treated me very honorably. They are govern’d by seven Councellours who appear’d to me to be men of very good understanding. About 1200 men landed ashoar as proper as ever I saw. They are very healthy, and in such a crabbed hold that it will be difficult to beat them out of it. They are seated about 24 leagues to the N.W. of the mouth of the Great River which empties itself into. the gulph. The ancient Indian name of this River is Trato, but the Spaniard often calls it Sarragost. I saw the settlement and order of the Scots, which appeared modest, and they declared themselves to me that they would be no harbourers of Pirates nor invade any man’s settled land, but those that would disturb them they would grant letters of reprisal against them. I considered upon the coast that his Mati¢ sent me out upon discoveries, and that I was upon the coast of Darien and in the Gulph before them, and perceiving that they would be upon the Pelliar of the vacant places in America, and that I heard how the French were coming out upon the same design to the Gulph and this great River aforemention’d, which lay vacant for a long way up into the Countrey, and if it was to be taken into possession by others, I thought it my duetie to his Matie to take possession in his name for the use of the Crown of England. Accordingly I returned to the Gulph from the Scots with allmy might and very good will unto the Indian Governour and Indians, and there to renew my acquaintance with them, and told them my design, which they lovingly gave consent to, and took possession in his Mattes name, leaving there the common flagg and four people to hep possession untill his Mates pleasure be further known. To acquaint your LoP- with it, J am no hater of the Scots nation, but a lover of them, as we are all one Island and must joyn together upon occasion against the Dragon of religion ; but what I have done I thought it my duety to do for my master as they thought to do for theirs. The Spaniards in this Countrey are in a great consternation about it and challenge it for their Countrey. The Governour of Carthagena would have raised all the force he could, and ordered the General of the Barleventa fleet 84 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. to go and fight the Scots, who would not, but fell into a flatt quarrell with the Governour, telling him that he would not make warr without the King his Maties order—and that the Scots had not invaded their ports ; and what right they might have to it, because they had no settled ports, he could not tell. The great people in this Island cry if the settlement go forward they are undone, the name of gold is so inticeing, and perhaps the Scots will grant Commissions, and then the Common people will run from hence, leaying them and their estates to themselves. I judge they have not spared in sending home their letters of complaint ; some crying I have done wisely in cutting off the Gulph from the Scots ; others say I am guilty of no less than high treason in leaving the flaggs and men to keep possession and beginning such a design. Thus they pass various verdicts upon me. But they will not consider how plentifull the Barbadians were and is now, and how in the first settling of Jamaica it was cried out against us if it would prove prejudicial to the Kingdom because all people of the common sort would run thither ; yet notwithstanding what great riches have been brought into the Kingdom through the settling of Jamaica! I am now about to sail to the intended place I have given your LoP- an accot of, and so to the Plate wrecks. If it pleases God the disposer of the whole creation to give me success according to the probability I have thereof, I may bring a treasure of great value into the Kingdom, that his Mate may be encouraged to begin those settlements ; I am following of it with what dili- gence I can, wherever I am I shall never cease to be, &c. XIIJ—PAPERS RELATING TO THE TRANSACTIONS OF THE COLONY WITH THE SPANIARDS AND OTHER NEIGHBOURS —FBBRUARY-Marcu 1699. LetreER—Mr. MonTGOMERIE TO THE CoUNCIL.* BR. BH: 6th February 1699. In obedience to your orders I came here lastnight. The party being lodg’d in good order, I posted sufficient guards upon all the avenues and * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 85 passages to this place. In our march hither we were mett half way by two Indians who were coming with intelligence, and gave account of the Spaniards being at Capt- Pedro’s house, wherfore I immediately dispatched two other Indians to know the certainty thereof, butt they not returning, after two hours staying and the night approaching, I march’d straight on wt a designe to surprise them if possible, being favoured w*- the obscurity of the night and their wonted security. Butt when I came to the place I found all very quiet—save the women who made a lamentable noise, fearing that we were the Spaniards. Capt- Pedro being himself from home returned an hour after our arrival, and was extreamly pleas’d at the concern we had for their safety. His neighbour Indians brought him fresh advice of a Spanish party 26 in number, besides Indians and Negroes, that were lodg’d a few miles from his house, and that two of the Spanish Indians were lying secure in a neighbour house. Our people being weary and all asleep, he sent Mr. Sobrino to me desiring to speak to me. I immediately went to his hammock, and he told me his uneasiness, and desired a party of 20 men wt: an officer to apprehend the s‘- Indians, which I speedily granted. About an hour aft- he came to me wt Capt. Diego, they were both in great fear and concern that the Spaniards were so near, and desired that we might not lose so favourable an occasion, seing they were lying secure without guard or sentinel. I immediately called the Party together, and detatched 40 men under the command of Lewt: Munro and Ensign Murray, to guard that place, and half an hour after 12 I march’d towards the Spanyards, and aft. 4 hours hard marching we arrived at a plantain walk which was very thick, it being near where the enemy lay. I made a halt and drew up the party, some being a good distance behind ; in the meantime the Indians gave a hollow which is the ordinary sign they use before action. This so alarm’d the Spaniards that they retir’d in great disorder, leaving all their provisions and their fires burn- ing ; they were lodg’d upona river side, some being on each side. The party being hungry I caus’d distribute the provisions amongst them ; in the meantime the Indians brought advice that the Indians were within musquet shot coming through the woods; the Indians runing in confusion towards the place alarmed the party, so that I had difficulty to make them keep order in marching to the place, where they lay doun among the bushes, not out of fear, butt they being too forward expos’d themselves to the Enemy’s fire, which they received 86 THE DARIEN PAPERS. twice before any return was made ; which was done effectually, driv from their ground, they took to tlie hils which are so — of am unpassable that I did not think it safe to pursue them, butt stay’d u place an hour, and then march’d the party to Pedro’s house, ual e your further orders. You have the list of the dead and a hurt myself in the thigh, and wait your orders impatiently, I m info the Spanyards design to bring a considerable force agt us who a re alt win a days march of this place. So not doubting butt your care @ measures will prevent any danger we may be in by the smalness o I shall say no more until I have the iiaanete of sicipg neds bie " Capt. Pedro's, Feby- 6, 1699. ee Ba a SOP near . . Dee List of the names of such as were killed and wounded Febry 6th ; Captain Pepro his house.— Killed— : Imp. Ensign Alex™- Swintoun. — Andrew Jaffrey. Wounded— Livt- John Merstoun. _ _Ensigne Dunlop. Sergent Robert Drummond. drew Broun. Dowgall M‘Calley. Petter Crystie. James Forsyth. | James Riddell. John M‘Lean. James Ramsay. John Smith. — J ames Forbes, Drumer. \ i , ' Rie. * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection © © 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 87 assure you of our good and peaceable intentions, and that if you think fitt to send any person or persons in order to begin a good understanding and cor- respondence with us, such shall be treated with all due respect according to their qualitys, and may freely pass and repass without interruption ; and we desire the same liberty and usage on your part, that soe the best and speediest course may be taken for laying aside all hostile designs and warlike pre- parations so prejudicial to the publick peace and security of trade. We have now here with us one of your people who cals himself Domingo de Bada, whom we have, and will continue to treat, with all kindness and civility, until we have advice from you how to dispose of him ; and least it should be difficult to find an Intepreter of English, we have translated this letter into Spanish as well as we could, and if any errours be found therein we refer yow to the original. Fort St. Andrew, the 15th day of Feb'y 1699. Wee are, ’ Sir, Your humble Servants. TREATY BETWEEN THE CoUNCIL OF CALEDONIA AND THE CHIEF DIEGO OF DARIEN. TREATY OF FRINDSHIP, UNION, AND PERPETUAL CONFEDERATION, agreed and entred into between the Ricut Hon®= tHe Councit or CALE- DoNIA, and the ExceLLentT Dizco Tucuapantos and Estrara, Chief’ and Supreame Leader of the Indians Inhabitants of the lands and possessions in and about the Rivers of Darieno and St. Matolome.* The said Diego having signifyed his earnest desire to enter into an entire frindship and strict allyance with the said Council and Colony ; The same is hereby agreed to and concluded in the termes following, viz.— 1. The said Council of Caledonia and the said Diego, and the people of their respective obedience, shall from henceforward be friends and confederates, and are hereby oblidged mutually to defend the persons, lands, territories, dependencies, and properties of each other by land and sea. * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection, titled as above. 88 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. - 2. The aforesaid Council and the said Diego, their people and dependants, may freely pass and repass, and shall mutually have the liberty of comerce, correspondence, and manuring, possessing, and enjoying lands in the countrys and places of their respective obedience in all time herafter. 3. If any of the people under the obedience of the said Council, or the said Diego, shall hapen to wrong or injure one another, the person or persons injured shall make their complaint, and in such case the respective partys to this treaty, their Magistrates and people, shall take effectual care that exact and speedy justice be done, and that things of that nature extend not to the weakning of this perpetual confederation. 4. It is herby likeways agreed that Captain Corbet of Conception River, Cap" Ambrosio of Coco, Cap" Nicola of Sept, Cap" Pansego of Carreta, and Cap" Pedro of Golden Island, and their people, shall, upon aplication, be admited into this treaty. 5. If any thing in this treaty shall afterwards want explanation or enlarge- ment the same shall be done from time to time by consent of the partys to this confederation. Which Treaty above writen having been interpret and explained to the said Diego, the said Council, for Confirmation and the greater solemnity therof, have ordered their Secretary in their own presence to subscribe his name and afix their seal therto ; and the said Diego hath put his mark to the same, at Fort St. Andrew the 24 Feb'y 1699. A copy in Spanish was likewise given him. The GovEerNor of Santa Marta’s Letter to the Counci, of CALEDONIA.* ILustRi” CouNcELL, I have received yours together with the Paket for the President of this Kingdome my Governour & Cap". Generall, and concerning yours to mee I do suspend my designes, till I have orders from my said Cap". Generall ; and as soon as the answer comes, I shall remit it to you, in which considera- tion I don’t answer this on my part; the bearer I have kindly entertained .* From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection, titled as above. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 89 and given him signes that none of my souldiers should molest him. I don’t send another person of my owne, it being not nesesary and therefore must suspend it, till the resolution and answer of my Cap®- Generall ; and concern- ing the Spaniard, I thank you for the offer, and leave it to yourselues to dispose of him as you shall please. God preserve yow many years, ILusTRIs- COUNCELL, whos hands I kiss, Your Servant, Subscribed thus, Luis Carrisouy. Dated at Tubuganty the 28th of February 1699. Directed thus on ye back :—To the Illustrious Council of Caledonia, whom God preserve many years, in Fort St. Andrew. Commission and Instructions by the Councit or CALEDONIA to ALEXANDER Mateutn.* CALEDONIA, Wee the Council of Caledonia, by vertue of the powers and priviledges unto us granted by His Majesty of Great Brittain our Sovereign Lord, with advice and consent of his Parliament of Scotland, having set doun and settled here for the encouraging and advanceing of trade, And being firmly resolved to committ no manner of hostility, or give the least offence or abuse to any Sovereign, Power, Potentate, or State, or others whatsoever, who shall not highly and justly provock us thereto ; but on the contrary being most willing and desirous to creat and intertain a good and friendly correspondence with all such as shall joyn, unit, or be aiding and assisting to us in carying on so great and good a work; and with non sooner than the subjects of his Catho- lick Majesty, and all for the enriching, strengthening and beautifying of this and other parts of the world. But having received information that the Dolphin tender belonging to this Colony, did lately in her way to Barbadoes and the Carribee Islands strick upon a rock, and forced to run a shoare under * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. M 90 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. the walls of Carthagen (where being taken for pyrats) the men are all detained and made prisoners, and the ship and cargo (at least so much thereof as was saved) sais’d upon and disposed of by order of the Governour. In consideration whereof wee do hereby commissionat and impower you Alex- ander Maighie to go to the said city of Carthagen, carying with you our flag of truce, and there to wait upon the Governour, and deliver our dispatches, and then signify that the foresaid ship, men, and cargo do belong to this Colony, the subjects of the King of Great Britain, and in his name and name of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, having and holding in your hand his Act of Parliament and Letters patent under his Great Seal for our settlement, to demand the saids men, being threty in number, and a boy, a list of whose names is herewith delivered you, as also restitution of the ship and cargo, (at least so much thereof, or value as was truly saved,) of which cargo an invoyce is likewayes herewith delivered you. But if restitution in manner forsaid be denyed, or delayed, then to signify that the same is directly contrar to the express words of the 10 & 11th articles of the treaty concluded between the crouns of Great Britain and Spain at Madrid the ;4, July 1670, and consequently a clear breach of the peace with our King, who without all doubt will protect and redress such of his loving subjects as shall be any wayes injured, affronted, or unjustly used. And in the meantime, that reprisals without any further notice will be taken and detained by us untill full reparation and satisfaction be made. And wee strictly charge you not to wait above the space of twenty four hours, but return with or without an answer from the said Governour with all con- venient speed ; for all which these shall be to you a sufficient warrant. Given under our hands at Fort St. Andrew the Elevint day of March One thousand six hundred and nynty nyn. Rosert Jouty, L.P.C. J. MonTGoMERIE. Witi™: PATERSON. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 91 . Lever by the Councit or CaLEponta to THE GoveRNouR or Cartua- GENA.* May IT PLEASE YOUR EXCELLENCE, Haveing received an account that the Dolphin tender of fourtein guns, . belonging to this Colony, had some weeks ago, in her way to Barbadoes and the Carribbee Islands, struck upon a rock and forced a shoare under your walls, and all the men detained and made prisoners, and the ship and goods (at least so much thereof as was saved) sais’d and disposed of by your order, (takeing them for pyrats.) Wee doe therfore, by these, signifie to yow that wee are the subjects of the King of Great Brittain, by vertue of whose power and authority granted to us, with advice and consent of his Parliament of Scotland, wee have setled here, for the encouraging, advanceing, and carying on of trade and commerce. And for the better effectuating therof, are most willing and desirous to joyn and correspond with all such as may be aiding and assisting to so great and glorious an undertakeing, and with none more willing than the subjects of His Catholick Majestie, in order to which wee have written to the President of Panama, and sent our despatches to be forwarded by the Master de Campo Louis Carrisola, Governour of Sancta Maria, now lying at Tubganti ; désiring at the same time free passage and safe conduct to meet and treat in relation therto, and granted the like to such as shall be appointed by him for that end. About a fourtnight ago, the said Master de Campo returned his answer, by which he acquainted us that he had sent forward our despatches to Panama. Wee have sent the bearer, who caryes our flag of truce, to wait upon your Excellence, whom wee have ordered and impowered in the name of the King of Great Brittain our sovereign, and Company of Scotland tradeing to Africa ; and the Indies, to demand our men detain’d by yow, being thretty in number, * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. The signatures appear to be autograph, but the document is marked on the back as a “ Copy.” 92 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. and a boy; and likewayes restitution of our ship and cargo, at least so much therof as was truly saved. And we doubt nothing of your ready com- pliance with our so juste and reasonable demands, as being very usuall and accustomary in such cases where there is no warr, but more especially very agreeable and directly quadrating with the express words contained in the tenth and eleventh articles of the treaty concluded between the Crowns of Great Brittain and Spain, at Madrid the {= of July in the year of our Lord 1670. . We have ordered the Carier of our message to wait twentie four hours for your commands. And wee do not apprehend or suspect that your Excellence will in the least suffer or permit any injury or affront to be done to him, as being a thing inconsistent with and contrar to the rules of Christianity, humanity, honour, and hospitality, and the common lawes and customes of all nations ; nor permitt any violence, hurt, or bad treatment to be given to any of our people that are with yow, or advantage to be taken of their present circumstances, or any other thing that may justly be interpret a violation or breach of the peace ; and therby be the cause and ground of a warr betwixt so great and powerfull Princes, wherby inevitably would follow the effusion of much Christian blood, the ruin of trade, and great desolations through many places of the world. ' But if contrair to our expectation, your Excellence shall refuse to deliver up our men in safety, and make restitution of what was savd of our ship and goods, or value, or detain or maltreat our Messenger, Wee do hereby signify and make knowen, that in either of these cases we will immediatly, without further nottice, by force of arms, both by sea and land, set upon, take and apprehend any of the men, ships, goods, moneys, and merchandizes of his Catholick Majesty, or any of his subjects, whersoever the same shall be found,—to be detain’d, by way of reprisall and pignoration, untill full satis- faction and restitution, or value of the loss and damnage already sustained, or which hereafter may be sustained therby, be made to us. All which, and the dangerous consequences that may happen, will justlie be laid to your charge, and required att your hands. Wee have sent herewith the Act of Parlia- ment, letters patent under the great seall of the Kingdom of Scotland, one in English, and another in Latin, wherby yow may have a clear and full 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. : 93 view of the just ground of our setlement, and great powers and priviledges granted to us. So waiting your return, wee are, MAY IT PLEASE YOUR EXCELLENCE, Your Excellencie’s humble Servants, (subscribed thus) Rost. Jouty. J. MONTGOMERIE. WILL™- PATERSON. CALEDONIA, Fort SAint ANDREW, March 11, 1699. A Memortiat to the Ricut Hon®#£ The Viscount or SEAFIELD and Lorp CARMICHAEL, His Majesties Principal Secretaries of State, from the Counci, GENERAL of the Company of ScoTLanD trading to Africa and the Indies.* May IT PLEASE YOUR Lo?s- The Council of the Colony of Caledonia having in all duty and humility sent the herewith delivered, addressed to his Maty; We thought it our duty likewise for his Maties and your LoPs- further information to give you a copy of that part of the said Council’s letter which relates to the subject matter of the said Address,} and is as followeth. Fort St. Andrew, April 8 1699. March the eleventh we dispatch’d a sloop near to Carthagena, and sent a Gentleman along with our letters to the Governour. He was put ashoar in a canoa, and carried a flag of truce with him. We gave him a Commission and directions, to demand in name of the King and Company our men and goods. About ten days thereafter, the said sloop and our Messenger return’d to this place, and acquainted us that the Governour having call’d a Council, and broke open our letters, threw them away, with the Act of Parliament and * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. { This Address will be found in “a full and exact Collection of all the considerable Addresses,” &c., “relating to the Company of Scotland trading to Africa,” &c., (1700,) p. 74. 94 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. Letters Patent, in a most disdainfull manner, calling us Rogues and Pirats, and order’d a guard to be brought to carry him to prison ; but that Don Martino de Savally, General of their Forces, interposing prevail’d to let him have the freedom of staying all night at his house, where he was most civilly enter- tain’d. This Don Martino having read over the letters patent, and then discours’d our Messenger fully, told him he doubted not all the men would be let go the next morning, providing he would not insist for the goods, deny- ing at the same time that any part of them was saved. Next day he delivered to him the Governour’s answer, telling him that none of our people would be let go, nor any access to them be allowed him, nor should they so much as hear of his being there ; and at parting told him very plainly, that had they been in a condition, they would have been with us long before this time ; but were fully resolved to gather such a force both by sea and land as would quickly at one blow root us all out of this place. We have now given Com- missions to cruize upon the Spanish Coast, and take by way of reprisal such of their men and goods as they can conveniently carry off ; to be detained by us untill full restitution and satisfaction be given. All which being rightly considered, and with that, their murtherin and wounding of our men sometime ago not far from our very doors, and having no manner of return from the President of Panama, we are very confident that none of you, nor will the King himself dis-approve of the measures we are taking, being sufficiently warranted thereto, so that we conceived nothing less could be done ; and at the same time to preserve the honour of this Colony, and the large and full concessions and great privileges granted thereto by his Majesty ; whereupon we judg’d it highly reasonable to acquaint the King with the very first steps of our procedure in so weighty a matter :—And to that purpose have herewith sent an address to be presented to his Majesty, &c. As to what concerns the French ship the Maurepas, commanded by Captain Duvivier Thomas, which was shipwrackt near Caledonia Harbour on the 24th of December 1698, concerning which we understand there is a Memorial presented by the French.— No man ever met with more generosity, humanity, and hospitality than the said Duvivier Thomas received from the Council of the said Colony, as may particularly appears by the said Council’s Journal transmitted to the Court of Directors of the said Company. Nor did ever any man prove more ingratefull 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 95 for such favours received than he did in some short time thereafter ; as may likewise appear by the letters and instruments transmitted since to the said Court of Directors; an abstract of which Journal is for your LoPs- more particular information here underwritten. On the 11th of December 1698, the Lieutenant of the said ship came in a long boat into the harbour, and giving an accot- of the said ship’s being a Merchant ship of 42 gunns, having only 32 mounted, that came out in Com- pany of those that returned the Church Plate to Carthagena, but had the French King’s Commission, and half the Company paid by the King; that she was very leaky. Wherefore he begg’d liberty to stope her leaks in the said Port, which was freely granted. Whereupon on the 12th ditto the said ship anchored near Golden Island, and the said Duvivier Thomas came on board of our Company’s ship the Saint Andrew, who without any seeming design told a great deal of News, and gave several accot’- concerning the Barlivento Fleet, the state and condition of the Spaniards at Carthagena, Portobello, and Panama, and the impressions they had of our coming into these parts. On the 13th the said ship came into Harbour and saluted the Commander with 9 gunns, who return’d the like number in respect that he had the King’s colours and commission, and was during his stay there treated with all civility imaginable, having the use of our Carpenters, &c. for nothing ; tho’, as we understood afterwards, he was all the while studying to learn what he could concerning our State, and endeavouring to practise upon some of the Indians ; and having got some of them aboard of his ship on the 23d at night, he and all his crew drank very hard with them, and got under sail very early the next morning without any notice given to us, but wanting a pilot, and himself and all his men being drunk, a great sea coming in from the North, and falling calm of a sudden, the ship fell to leeward a great pace where there was nothing but an Iron Shoar, and had certainly been stranded on the first point had not Capt®- Pennicuick got into his own boat and made her get ahead of the said ship and towe her till she weather’d that point. But being then necessarly obliged to anchor in a Little Bay, Cap*- Pennicuick did at the said Duvivier’s earnest request send for a long boat, an anchor, and cable, with all the pinnaces to towe her out, but stay’d himself aboard of the French ship to give all the assistance that he could—he having at the said Duvivier’s earnest request promised to stay by him as long as he keeped the ship ; for the sailors . 96 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. being all hot-headed since the night before did not mind what their own Captain said to them. The ship rid about three quarters of an hour after they anchored, and then her best bowar cable broke, and in half an hour after the small bowar gave way. So ashoar she went upon the rocks, where in half an hour she was all to pieces. Captain Pennicuick was as good as his promise, and staid till he saw the said Duvivier Thomas (who could not sweem) fastened upon a raft and gone; then took his own opportunity and swam ashoar : and after that he was arrived safe ashoar, perceiving the said Duvivier Thomas to be in imminent danger of being dasht against the rocks with the great sea that beat against them, he again swam towards the said Duvivier, untyed him from the said raft, and carried him ashoar, extremely bruised and more than half dead, till he was hung up by the heels and the salt water run out of his mouth, &c. He and his Lieutenant, who was likewise much bruised, being with some difficulty rescued from being murdered by his own men, and carried on board of the Saint Andrew, where they were carefully lookt after by Chyrurgeons and servants untill they recovered. Here follows an exact copy of that part of the Council of Caledonia’s letter to the said Court of Directors which relates to the said Duvivier Thomas after his having entred into contract with them, &c. Fort St. Andrew, March 6th, 1699. Duvivier Thomas the French Captain left this place ten days ago ; never did any man prove more ungratefull, unreasonable, and uneasy, than he did, to one and all of us, notwithstanding the great and singular favours shewn to him, no less than rescuing him from the cruel hands of his own men, who no sooner was the ship cast away, and he lying on the shoar sore bruised, and even almost dead, but they began to swear bloodily, they would cut his throat, or knock him in the head, which they had certainly done had not he and his Lievtenant been quickly carried off in hammocks a good way through the woods to a calm place where a pinnace was waiting, and carryed them on board the Commandore, where they were very carefully waited on by Chyrurgeons and servants untill they recovered. Then he frequently re- quested and importuned all of us to take the charge of his wreck, and that he would enter into a contract with us to that purpose, which at lenth we agreed to,.yea even for a small allowance, being most willing to shew all 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 97 manner of discretion and generosity to a stranger and in such distress, (a copy of which Agreement is herewith sent;) Yet nevertheless he did write to Jamaica for two sloops to come hither in order to bargain with them to dive and fish upon his wreck, which he never made known to us or to any upon this place untill some days after these sloops arrived, and then he desired that we would deliver him up or cancell the contract, which we could by no means do, as not judging it safe ; or least that thereby we might give ground to others to reflect upon our way of management as wavering, or not well digested, but besides we had been at considerable trouble and charges in relieving and keeping guards at the wreck. Then he began to exclaim and cry out against us, and went to such a hight, as that these very men he wrote for, admired at his carriage, and condemn’d him very much when they got notice of his contract with us, and at so easie a rate upon his part, and could not think enough of his dis-ingenuity and folly in calling them without our knowledge or consent to a work whereof we only had the present management. Never- theless he sign’d a contract with Nathaniel Mitchell, Master of one of the sloops, whereby he was to give him one third of all, but next day he tore it. We then understood he design’d to go away abruptly without appointing any to look after the wreck in the termes of the contract. This oblig’d us to take protests against him, as will be seen by the copies of the instruments. At last he deputed Daniel Lodge, and so left the place without so much as taking leave of any. Some two or three days thereafter, finding the weather somewhat calm in the mornings, we set dyvers to work, but they found the wreck almost all buryed over with sand, which was occasioned by the great sea beating there. So that there are little or no hopes of recovering any thing save some gunns, cables, and anchors. We are well satisfied that. strangers are witnesses to this, all which we thought fit to inform you with, to shew how kindly and candidly we dealt all along in this matter, and how un- agreable the requittal hath been, which now persuades us that that man came here upon no good design to this place ; In which case providence hath been kind to us, and just to him. But if he should attempt to offer any thing either at home or abroad whereby to give a bad character or impression of us, we have given you ground enough for vindicating of our honour and con- futing of him, and thereby prevent any thing which might otherways touch us. But had he acquainted us before he hoisted sail, and demanded our boats N 98 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699 to towe him out (which would have sa readily been granted as the use of our Carpenters) he would have saved us a great deal of trouble and expenses, and himself and Owners a good deal of riches by saving of the ship, &e.. Memorandum.—tThat the said Duvivier Thomas did first of all (without any notice given to the said Council) write to Jamaica for sloops and dyvers, with promise to allow them the third of all that should be recovered ; but haying no return, in a long time he fully despaired of their coming, tho’ he never acquainted the said Council thereof, but by writing under his hand did several times pray and entreat them to enter into contract with him for the purposes above mention’d, and a considerable time after that they had entered into Articles, and been at considerable charges and trouble about the said wreck, the Jamaica Dyvers came, which, together with his former disasters, made the said Duvivier Thomas quite light-headed. And thereupon proceeded the several protests and instruments, of which exact copies are hereto annexed ; by all which it manifestly appears that there is no shaddow of pretence for what is alledg’din the French Memorial above mentioned with relation to the said Duvivier Thomas his being detain’d from fishing upon the said wreck. And as to the allegation of the said Council’s having detain’d five of his men, and requiring payment for his and their provisions, here is now one of the said Council, and several other persons who were then upon the said Colony, who do positively aver that the said allegation is an absolute and groundless calumny in all respects, and that the said Duvivier Thomas was the very last man belonging to the said ship that remain’d upon the Colony ; for the truth is, he and his men were glad to be rid of one another. LETTER— WILLIAM PATERSON to the Court oF DiREcTORS.* My Lorps anp GENTLEMEN, What I have now to say concerns the designs of the French upon Darien — (as it’s vulgarly called.) Before we arrived upon that Coast Corbet of the Samblas had been at Petit-Guavis, and from thence went with Monst- Ponti to the taking of Carthagena. After that Monst- Du-Cass (who perhaps is the * From a certified copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 99 most knowing and every way best accomplisht Governour that any Prince or State in Europe hath now in the Indies) well knowing of what consequence a Correspondence with these Natives might be to the future designs of the French in America, sent Corbet home with great presents, and a commission to be Governour of the Indians of the Samblas. Corbet was then accompanied with several of the French Nation, and some Indians whom they had trained up to some smattering of the French Language. This Commission from Du- Cass ordered all the subjects of his Christian Majesty, and such as should hereafter be reduced to his Obedience, to acknowledge Corbet as Governour of the Samblas and Territories thereon depending. Some months after this Du-Cass sent to Corbet the French King’s confirmation of this Commission. By this Commission, the confirmation therof, and the Letter wrote to Corbet by Du-Cass on that occasion, it plainly appears that the French then designed to open their way to the South Sea by Conception River, as then knowing of no better nor more commodious way. But after the Peace was concluded, Monst- Du-Cass wrote a second Letter to Corbet telling that the King had made peace with Spain, and desiring therefore that he andthe People under his command would do no more dammage to, or carry on any further designs against the Spaniards. But we coming to settle at Port Caledonia, about 35 or 36 leagues to the Eastward of the Samblas ; and Captain Duvivier Thomas coming into our Port to stope the leaks of his Ship the Maurpas, by converse with the Natives who then from several Parts were in great numbers in your Colony, found the design of such weight as fit to be represented to the King of France his Sovereign Lord ; and to make it look the fairer, and for the greater show and ostentation, designed to carry the Indians of Corbet’s Party, whose borrowed names were Pedro and Nicola, to France with him; and tho’ both of them were so far from being Supreme Leaders, that they had not any subordinate Office that I know of, yet they were in Europe to be given out not only for Chief Leaders, but for the supreme Princes of that countrey, and under that pretence to complain in France of our Settlement. But this design was not only rendered abortive but fully dis- covered by the Shipwrack of the said Ship the Maurpas. Besides which, it was also discovered that at the time of her casting away, above fifty Letters to the King, Dauphin, and great Ministers of France from the most consider- able Persons in the Provinces of Carthagena, Panama, Peru, and other places, were on board. The contents whereof, besides particulars, were in general to 100 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. — signifie the great inclination there is in the Spanish Indies to declare for the Dauphin upon the first news they shall have of the King of Spain’s death. After this, Corbet came to our Colony, bringing his said Commission, the Confirmation, and two before mentioned Letters along with him, when I had the opportunity to read them, and upon this and other occasions of conversing with him and others of his Indians, I understood more of the designs of the French upon, and of their intelligence in the Spanish Indies than ever I had so much as heard surmised in Europe, and in particular that the designs the French would otherwise have on foot in America are altogether suspended, only upon the account of the expectations they have of the Dauphin’s succes- sion to the Crown of Spain, and so by consequence not only to get a part but the whole Indies. A little before we left the Colony, there was a Spanish Letter found in a Glass-Bottle, in the Sloop that was brought from the Samblas by Captain Pilkington. This Letter was sent from the Governour of Portobello to a Frenchman, who, by the contents of the Letter, it seems then commanded this Sloop, and was sent with her from the Governour of Carthagena to the Indians of the Samblas to denounce to them, that if they gave any more assistance, or continued to correspond with your Colony, that they should not only have the Spaniards but also the French for their enemies; but that if they would heartily joyn to root out the Scots that they should be well rewarded for their pains. The same Letter also says that the Governour Du-Cass had promised to joyn the Spanish preparations against your Colony _ with four Friggots ; nay, rather than fail, Monst- Du-Cass himself would come in Person to help to root out these Scots (as the Letter termes them.) This Letter from the Governour of Portobello was wrote sometime in March, and as it thereby appears, that from Monst- Du-Cass sometime in February last ; but my indisposition hindered me to get a coppy or to take the dates at the time it was found, nor could I recover it since. I suppose it may be among the Council’s Papers ; but this much I remember of its remarkeable contents. To the Right Honourable The Court of Directors, &c. This is a true copy of the Original under Mr. Paterson’s hand, which is now in my custody. Rop. Mackenzie. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 101 ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT betuixt the Counci, or CALEDONIA and ; Captain EPHRAIM PILKINGTOUN.* WITNESSETH AS FOLLOWES, First, The said Ephraim Pilkingtoun shall have and receive fir the hyre of his Shalloop twelve full shares. 2d, The said Ephraim Pilkingtoun shall have and receive for himselfe two shares and a halfe. 3d, The Doctor shall have one hundred pieces of eight for his chest of Medicins, and one share in comon. 4th, The said Council reserves to themselves one tenth part of all the loading of any prize taken at sea—the wounded and disabled men being first provided for, and the like share of all booty taken-upon land. 5. If any man be disabled in the service of the voyage, in so much that he be put from geting a future lyvlyhood, in such case the same man shall have and receive six hundred peeces of eight, or six able slaves, if so much be made in the said voyage. 6. All the remaining part of the profit of the voyage to be equaly divided amongst the men belonging to the vessels, share and part alike. 7. That the said Ephraim Pilkingtoun have his choice of first, second, or third prize taken in the voyage in the lieu of his, not exceeding three in number. — ’ In virtue wherof, both parties have herto set their hands at Fort St. Andrew the Elevinth day of March One thousand six hundred nynty nyn. Rozsgrt Joy, J. Hpur. PILKINGTON. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 102 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. XIV.—PAPERS RELATING TO CAPTAIN PINCARTONE’S IMPRISONMENT. STATEMENT BY CapTAaIN PINCARTONE.* On the 52 of February 169%, having unfortunately struck on a rock, and not able to keep her above by bealing and pumping, We runn ashoar to save our lives with our goods under the walls of Carthagena ; the Governour, with the rest of his Officers and men of the city, came down to the Marine (the place wher the shipp was runn ashoar,) and sent one canoe and demanded us ashoar ; when I was ashoar I desired of the Governour that he might assist me to save the Dolphin’s Cargo and acutriments ; att first he told he would ; but when I see them prolong time, I desire he might suffer the Comm and rest of the men to go aboard and save the cargo. Then he gaye a verball order I might go and save the Cargo, &c. But before we could gett to the boat we was hindered from going on board, and sent up to the town with a strong guard, and seperately put in a dungeon and in irons, (I having a ribb of my side broke at that time ;) some days after, 1 was examined (taken out of the dungeon and irons) and carryed to an upper prison, haying three souldiers guarding us night and day, and was their thre months, without the King’s allowance. I severall times petitioned the Governour for subsistance and cloaths to shift me. He send me word by the Marshall who carryed my petition, that I most petition in another manner, and to desire as a fayour to dispose of some of our goods, for a maintainance to myself and the rest of the men. I being in a starving condition and the men, who were some of them dead for want, desired he might do so; wherupon he ordered me two rialls plate pt Diem; and sent as much of our own scotis cloath as made three shifts for myself and 3 for Capt® Malloch. I see the Company’s goods carryed away befor mine eyes, as also my own goods, and likewise the shipp’s acutriments I see carryed up in carts, and the shipp wherin we were sent prisoners to the Havana in had the Dolphin’s Guns on board, so that I believe their was but litle lost ; all was saved by them. The prison wher * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. . 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 103 we lay was a house of office for the guards, and every night were obliged to clean a place for our selves to ly down. The rest of the men were every day carryed out with their slaves, to work att their walls, and clean their streets ; and were likewise forced to cry and begg from every one that passed by for God’s sake for some charity to save their lives. After I had intelli- gence of our country leaving their settlement I petitioned (to the new Gover- nour) that he might clear us of that miserable life ; and that he would send us to some of the English Islands, or let us go. He told me the old Governour had wrote such things against me that he could not let me go; but of. necessity I most be sent to old Spain. So in the month of Septemr- 1699 I was sent prisoner to the Havana, as also Cap®- John Malloch, and James Graham ; and the men (7 wherof died with badd usage) were dispersed and forced on board their shipps of warr. When we came to the Havana the same night imprisoned and putt in irons, wher we remained about twentie days, then sent home prisoners to Cadiz, wher we were put and kept in irons till our Countrymen bought them of. After our imprisonment, which was the 14th of December 1699 untill the latter end of March 1700, then we were sent prisoners in irons to Sevilla in a small boat, which if she had oversett we could make no help for our lives. We arrived at Sevilla about the first of Aprile, and about the 10 of June 1700 we were condemned to die as pirratts and Invaders, and continued in irons without any intromission till by divine providence we were liberated, which was about the 20th of Sep- tember 1700. Rost. PINCARTONE. STaTEMENT by JAMES GRAHAM.* In the Company’s shipp Dolphin (on the 5th of February 1695) having unfortunately struck on a rock, and not able to keep her above by baling and pomping, runn ashoar att Carthagena. The Governour, Souldiers, and * From a Document in the Miscellaneous Collection. It is in the same handwriting as Captain Pincartone’s Statement, which appears to be original. ‘The reader will trace an identity of style in the composition of the two statements. 104 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. men of the town came to the Marine (wher the shipp was) and sent on board a Canoe desiring us ashoar. A-litle after we had gott ashoar, we were return- ing on board in order to save the Dolphin’s cargoe, &c., we were hindered and carryed into the town with a strong guard of Souldiers. Part of the Dolphin’s cargo I see Spaniards bring ashoar and carry away ; the shipp’s acutriments I see carryed up on carts. As to my particular usage, I was carryed before the Governour, and was searched (as they pretended) for papers. To what money I had they took and gave it to the Governour, who seeing some Spanish money amongst it, said to his Officers (as interpreted to me by Jo". Willson) their was money of the King of Spain’s, and so put it up. I earnestly requested my money, but his souldiers drove me away. My stuffs, green linning, a box of small Dutch ware, my books, instruments which I bought att the best hand att London, my cloaths of all sorts, acutriments, &c., were unto them a lawfull prize ; a great part of them I see Spaniards carry away. I claimed my own in vain. So that in all I saved one cap, one wescoat, one pair of drawrs, one shift, one pair of shoes. Being carryed by a strong guard to prison, we were their searched by the Marshall and his Officers, and so sent into a dungeon. Some days therafter, the men were carryed out with their slaves to build their walls, and clean the streets; and for hunger * we were oblidged to begg and cry for charity from all that passed along. And in September Capt™s Rot: Pincarton, Jo®- Malloch, and I were sent pri- soners to the Savana, wher we kept in irons and prison twentie days or ther- abouts. Then sent prisoners to Cadiz, where kept in irons till our countrey- men bought them of. Our imprisonment their was about the 14 of December 1699 till the latter end of March 1700. Then sent prisoners in irons to Sevilla in a small boat. Had the boat oversett, we could made no help to save our lives. And on the 10 of June or therabouts we were condemned as pirratts and invaders, and were continually in irons without any intermission untill providentia divina we were liberated, which was about the 20t of September 1700. JAMES GRAHAM. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 105 QUESTIONS proposed to CAPTAIN PINCARTONE by the Jupaxs at Snvit, and his ANSWERS.* They first enquired my name and age, and then declared my oath to declare the truth to all they should ask me. Q. How that I being one of the Council chosen in Scotland and Vice- Admiral, could be ignorant where we were going? J. I was shipped by the Compy: for Guinea and the West Indies. I was ordered to sail, my orders being sealed by the Company’s seal, and not to be opened untill I should come in the Lat. of 31 or 32 degrees, and in case of separation at Maderas. Q. How the Company of Scotland was about so cheatingly and deceivingly, without giving notice to the K. of England of the place which you went to (called by the Spaniards Laudriel)? &. I knew of no deceit intended by the Company or any of their servants by not declaring to the K. of England where they intended to settle, which plainly appears by their orders, which they gave to us sealed up, which was im case of separation to go to the Maderas, and their to break open our orders, which we found to be for Crab ‘Island, and there to remain, if not inhabited by any European Prince, which at our coming there we found none, and then landed our men. The Gover- nour of St. Thomas Island hearing of our being there, sent down a sloop with fourteen or fifteen men, with a protest against us, declaring that Island to belong to the K. of Denmark his Mr., wherupon we embarked our men and departed. Then opening our second orders diverted us for Golden Island or Isle of Gordo, by which it plainly appears they could give no certain accot- where they were to inhabite, and consequently could not satisfy the King where they should inhabite. Q. When you found your orders to that place ; Whether you did not know that land did not belong to the K. of Spain? &. No, for when we came there, had we found any Spaniards or subjects of the Crown of Spain, which should given us an account of that land belonging to the K. of Spain, we would have departed from it as we did from Crab Island, and followed our other instructions. . * From a copy, titled wt supra, in the Miscellaneous Collection. O 106 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. Q. How could it be possible, I using the sea so long and Commander of a ship so long, could be ignorant that place did not belong to the King of Spain, seeing Panama was so nigh, and Carthagena on the one side and Portobello on the other? &. My trade was never that way ; I did not know what did belong to the K. of Spain or what did not. For at our coming tliere, the Indians (that gave us the Land) declared to us they were a free nation never conquered, and that Land never did belong to any King or Prince of Europe, and that they had a continual warr with the Spaniard ; and if it had not been so, we did expect their Goyernours (being so high) had protested against us, or sent a letter giving us notice that Land did belong to the K. of Spain, which he never did, and gaye us great reason to believe it was really so as the Indians had told us. Q. How we went about to build such a strong fort to suppress the Indians and subjects of Spain, and not to give the K. of England an account of our — proceedings? &. We never intended to suppress the Indians or the K. of Spain’s subjects, or any other nation whatsoever that came [not] as enemies against us, and not to offend any ; and by the first opportunity (which happened to be a turtling sloup from Jamaica) we sent a Councellour and a private Gentleman to give an account to the K, and CompyY of our proceedings. Q. How that after we heard of the K. of England’s proclamations, (he not pleased with our settlement,) forbidding any of his Islands to assist us with provisions, or to have any commerce with us, he knowing that place belonging to the K. of Spain, did not remove from that place: And likewise, we taking a prisoner, called Don Domingo ded-Rada, who declared unto us that that land did belong to the K. of Spain? A. I was a prisoner at Cartha- gena when I heard of that Proclamation, having lost our ship, and I did not know but that might be the reason that they left that place ; as for the Prisoner, I never saw him, nor knew any thing of him, but what I heard in Carthagena prison ; neither can I see how he could declare that land did belong to the K. of Spain, When they offered him his freedom, he would not accept of it, unless they would let some people convoy him clear from the Indians into some Spanish Government, which accordingly they did by a Lievt- and another man, who were detain’d and made prisoners: by the Spaniards, and sent to Carthagena. Q. How I being a Councellour and second Capt. could be ignorant of Us THE DARIEN PAPERS. 107 coming to the King of Spain’s dominions, having a cargo suitable for their trade, and for no other place? &. The cargo we had was most for the use of our own people, and was suitable for the English Islands, for it consisted of linning cloath, white and blue, piriwicks, Scots shoes for men and women, slippers, which is very seldom worn amongst the Spaniards in that countrey that ever we saw. Q. Why would I deny that I did not know of my coming to Laudriel, when that your Company that were prisoners at Carthagena told Capt. Gerrot, who was Capt: of the Advice, that carried us from Carthagena to Havana, that I had lent the Compy EHighty thousand dollars, and that I had a great quantity of goods that I had left on board the ship I commanded, and most of the goods that were in that ship we had lost was my own, and that I intended to trade with vessel and some others in the River Laudriel to Papagin, Antioch, and several other places, (whose names I never heard before,) as also some hundred of leagues up in the Kingdom of New Granada? &. AsI have formerly declared, I knew nothing of my coming to Laudriel ; and for the men that declared I had lent the Company so much money, I do not believe that any of them spoke such words, for I was never worth five thousand dollars at one time ; and for having any interest in that Company, I never had further than my bare wages, which was ten pounds a month ; and as for the goods in the ship Dolphin, they and the ship wholly belong’d to the Com- pany of Scotland, and was no further concern’d in them, than by an order of the Council to dispose of the Cargo at Barbados ; and as for trading in the River of Laudriel and the other places above mention’d, I never heard it once named, nor never had any such intention, nor never heard of the names of any such places, nor any other Scotsman along with me, that ever I heard of. Q. How come you to deny and say you never intended a trade, when you told Capt. Gerrot aforesaid, and Philip Reyall, who was his pilote, that you had sent down to Portobello, Carthagena, and Panama, to desire a trade ; and seeing they would not admitt you a trade, you was bound to Jamaica to dis- pose of that cargo? &. I never told them any such thing, for we never had seen “a Spaniard to propose any such question to them, untill that day we were shipwracked at Carthagena, neither had we sent by any person whatso- ever to any of these places above written, neither were we bound for Jamaica, but for Barbados. . 108 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1700. Q. Why did I say that I did not know any thing of trading with the K. of Spain’s subjects, when the man that your Council had sent to the Goyernour of Carthagena to demand you, told the Governour that they did not come to molest the subjects of Spain, but to desire a trade for trade? R. At that time I was a prisoner, and did not see the man that came to demand us, neither do I know what he said, neither do I know of any trade they proposed, nor any other intention than settling a Plantation for sugar and tobacco. Letter from the Prisoners to the Directors of the Company.* Rt. Honor®£. LorDs AND GENTLEMEN, Yesterday our cause was debetted, and the Fiscall endeavours to prove us pirratts, and fortifies it by the reasons of the King’s proclamation in Jamaica, &c., as also by some words from the King’s own mouth to the Spanish Embassad': in England, which are transmitted to the Councill of Indies in writting, in which the King disowned your undertaking ; all which, the aforsd. accuser says, proves clearly that we had no Commission from the King ; and for any other patent or warrant for our proceedings, their appeared none. This day we had this information by letter from the Consull of this place ; and notwithstanding of all his defences, he advices us that to morrow the sentence will pass against us (as pirratts) in loss of lives and goods, &e. The Consull hopes to do better by his appeal above att Madrid ; there being no Minister of State their, nor any to appear in our cause, makes it dubious. We theirfor humbly desire you would be pleased to send (with all dispatch in case it come too late) the coppy of your patent and Act of Parliament in your favours, attested befor some justice of peace, is what our Lawyer requires, as also the King’s disannulling the Jamaica proclamation, and that you would be pleased to send the coppy of our sailling orders, seeing they will not be per- swaded but we knew that we were bound directly for Golden Island, of which we knew not (as we have declared) when we sailled from Scotland, and that you would be pleased to transmit them to Sir Martine Wescombe, Con- * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699-1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 109 sull in Cadiz. The King’s letter has not appeared here. All that att present offers, Rt Honor®£. LorDs AND GENTLEMEN, Your humble Servants in all respect, Rost. PINKERTONE. Bry. SPENSER, alias PENSo. JOHN MALLOCH. Davip WILSONE. JAMES GRAHAM. Sevilla Prison, May 28, 1700. SENTENCE against Caprain PincarTone and others.* In the Criminal Case between the fiscal of his Majty and Rt. Pto. Ben. Spenso, Jno. Malach, Jam. Graham, and D4. Wilson, of the Kingdom of Scot- land, who are prisoners for having gone f™- said K4om. with a squad™- of S. ships of warr to America, and setled there, making houses and forts. The declarations being perused, wee find that wee ought to condemn, and do con- demn Cap. Rt. Pton. B. Spence, Jno. Malach, and Jam. Graham to dye; the forme how, is reserued to us, and that Dav4- Wilson be set at liberty for being ond. age, and we do confiscate all the goods of the s¢- 4 persons, and all the Merchandises of the ship Dolphin ; and to the intent it may be executed soe, tis ordered that a copy of this sentence authenticated be sent to Cartax®- and that the goods being sold to bee att the K®- disposal, &c. ; and finding by st. declar™- &c. too bee guilty the Duke of Hamilton, my L¢ Pemur, the Mar‘: of Tevathall, and the rest of the persons in Scotland who formed this Company without the Ks: leave, to invade and setle, tis just they shou‘ be punished for the preseru™- and good peace of the two Crowns, Spain and Enel4., all wch ought to be made known to the K. of Eng‘: by the ambasadr- there, and the ill consequences that may follow to all Hurope by such pro- ceedings, and the vast charges the K. hath been att on this occasion ; and finding that the Gout: of Cartax- shout. have punished the remainder of the * From an unsigned paper in the Miscellaneous Collection, addressed ‘“ to the Right Hon- ourable The Lords and Gentlemen of the Private Councill of the Scotts Africa and Indian Company, at their Office in Mill’s Square, in Edinburgh, Scotland.” 110 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1700. ship’s comp: he having not done the same as he ought to do wtbout orders, it ought to be made known to his Majty that hee may do his pleasure ags- st. Gou &e. DECLARATION by Cap? Ropert PINKERTON and JAMES GRAHAM.* We, the Subscribers, being interrogated by a Committee of Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, (1°) Upon what alledged crime we were tried for our lives at Sevil ; (24°) Upon what evidence we were condemn’d to die, &c. ; (3%?) Whether we were liberated upon pro- duction of the attested copies of the Act of Parliament and Letters patent establishing the Company, and of the commission, instructions, and sailing orders founded thereupon, or upon the King’s letter ; (4°-) Whether the King, by his letter, required our liberation as a favour, or in pursuance of the treaties between the Crowns of Brittain and Spain ; and lastly, What was the reason that we did not procure and bring along with us a copy of the process? We do therefore declare, upon our Consciences, and to the best of our Memories, That as to the first, we were tried as Pirates, and for having invaded the r Dominions of Spain in sailing beyond the Canaries without leave from the | King of Spain, and as having no Commission from our own King. That as to the second, the only evidence adduced against us were His Maty of Great Britain’s Proclamations emitted against us in the West Indies, and certain words alledged to have been pronounced by the King’s own mouth to the Spanish Ambassadour in England, by which His Maty disown’d all the Company’s proceedings, or that they had any Authority from him to go to these parts; which words were (as we understand) transmitted in writing to the Council of the Indies in Sevil, and produced in Court against us. That upon this Evidence only we were condemn’d as Pirates and Invaders, to die in such manner as the Judges should think fit, our Estates and Goods (if we had any) to be escheated to the King, the ship Dolphin and Cargo likeways escheated to His Catholick Maty; and the Governour of Carthagena to be reprimanded for not either executing all the other Persons * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699-1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. lil taken prisoners with us, or transmitting them to Old Spain, in order to have undergone the same trial as we did. That his Catholick Maty should by his Ministers demand and require of the King of Great Brittain that the Persons of the Duke of Hamilton, the Marquess of Tweeddale, Earle of Panmure, and all others concerned in the Company, should be seized and their Estates confiscated, to make reparation for the dammage and expenses sustain’d by his Catholick Maty in equipping a fleet for dispossessing their Settlement at Darien. That as to the third, the first thing that gave us hopes of our Liberation, and advice that we had from the Vice-Consul at Cadize importing that by the Flamborrough Advice-Boat then arriy’d from England, several letters did bear that the Scots Colony in Darien had surrendered that Settle- ment to the Spaniards upon certain Articles of Capitulation, in which he said he doubted not but we were included. That very soon thereafter arrived the King’s Letter to Mons* Schonenberg his Envoy at Madrid, as also the attested copies above mention’d, upon which the said Envoy wrote to the Council at Sevil acquainting him thereof, and that he doubted not to put a stope to any further proceedings against us, and to procure our pardon; but that he resolyed not to expose the King’s letter to the Criminal Council, or to take any legal Course for our Liberation to avoid Charges, but that he would interpose with his Catholick Maty in a private way. That soon upon the back of that again arrived advice from the Governour of Carthagena, by which we suppose they might have a particular account of the Capitulation formerly mention’d ; and tho’ the attested Copies above mention’d were by the Consul of Sevil transmitted to the said Envoy at Madrid, the Envoy returned word to the Consul that he would not produce them, because he would do our business without them ; and in near about twenty days thereafter he procured our Pardon from the King of Spain, who at the same time approvd of and confirmed the sentence passd against us at Sevil, and sent orders to the President and Council of the Contratention House at Sevil, to deliver us to the English Consul upon his bond to send us prisoners to England, in order to be tried there for any thing that the King of Great Brittain might have to _ say against us for acting without his Authority. That thereupon the English Consul having got us out of prison, and declared to us that we were to be _ prisoners at large, untill such time as he should receive his Master the King of England’s further pleasure concerning us, one of us expostulated very 112 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1700. much with him as to the extremities we had been reduced to, and that if he detain’d us any longer there he must resolve upon defraying our charges, and entreated that he might send us to the Consul at Cadize, to be by him dis- posed of as he should think fit. Upon which he did let us go upon our engagement to present ourselves to the Consul at Cadiz ; and when we came to S* Martin Westcombe, the Consul at Cadize, he told us that he had no orders about us, and that we might go what way we pleased for him; and by the by, we cannot in gratitude but say that St Martin Westcombe, the Consul at Cadize, and the Vice-Consul, Mr. James Chalmers our Countrey- man, were very generous and kind to us in all respects, and by letters prompted the Consul at Sevil to appear in our behalf, and engaged to free him of all dammages, and clear him of all charges upon our account. So that upon the whole, we know not whether we were liberated upon the King’s letter or not ; for we were told by the Consul of Sevil and several other persons in Spain, that the King’s letter might probably have prolong’d to us a miserable life ; but that they believed it would not have procured our Libiration, if certain advice had not been come of our Colony’s surrender, &c. As to the 4th, we cannot answer positively, not having seen the King’s letter; but we understood in the general from such as we conversed with, that our Libera- tion was desired and obtain’d as a favour. Then, Lastly, as to our not having procur’d a copy of our Process. The Consul of Sevil when we desired it, told us, first, that it would cost us a great deal of money. But when we desired him not to stand upon that, for whatever were the charge of it that should not be wanting, he then told us frankly that he could not understand for what end we required it ; and that in regard it might give jealousy and raise ill blood, he would not appear in it without a special Order from the King his Master, or from the English Secretary of State. In testimony of all which, we have hereunto set our hands at Edinburgh, the fourth day of January 1701. Rot PINCARTONE. JAMES GRAHAM. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 113 XV.—RULES AND ORDINANCES FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF THE COLONY. Russ and Orpinances for the Goop GovERNMENT of this CoLtony.— April 24, 1699.* The Council and Deputees Assembled in Parliament, pursuant to the trust reposed, and the powers and immunities granted by his Majesty of Great Brittain, our Sovereign Lord, communicated and transmitted unto them by the Indian and African Company of Scotland, Have, for the good order and Government of this Colony, after mature deliberation, agreed and concluded upon the following rules and ordinances, as appearing most reasonable, equal, and sutable, to be from this time forward binding and obliging ; and for that effect, that an ordinary Judicatur or Court of Justice be appointed, to consist of such and such number of persons as the Council shall think convenient. The which shall have power to choose their President, and to name and appoint Clerks, servants, and all other officers needfull, and to proceed upon, judge, and determin all causes, crimes, and punishments by and according to the following rules and ordinances, which wee doe hereby appoint and ordain to have the full force and effect of lawes within this Colony and its depen- dences by land and sea. 1. In the first place, It is hereby provided and declared, that the precepts, instructions, examples, comands, and prohibitions exprest and contain’d in the holy Scriptures, as of right they ought, shall not only be binding and obliging, and have the full force and effect of lawes within this Colony, but are, were, and of right ought to be, the standart, rule, and measure to all, the further and other constitutions, rules, and ordinances thereof. 2. He who shall blaspheme or prophane the name of Almighty God, or any of his divine attributes, or use any curse or imprecation, after public acknow- ledgement, shall suffer three days’ imprisonment and confinement to bread, water, and hard labour for the first offence, and, for the second offence, shall * From a signed Draft in the Miscellaneous Collection. P 114 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. suffer the said punishment for thirty dayes, and for every other offence, shall be punished at the discretion of the Justiciary Court. 3. Whosoever shall behave himselfe disrespectfully towards the Council, or any of the Councilours, or towards his own or any other Officer of this Colony, or shall speak words tending to their or any of their hurt or dishonour, or shall know of such behaviour or words spoken, and shall not reveal the same with all convenient speed, shall be punished according to the nature of the offence, and quality and circumstances thereof, in the judgement of the Justiciary Court. 4. No man shall, upon pain of death, hold correspondence, give advice, or keep intelligence with any rebell or enemy ; as also he who shall know of any such intelligence, and shall not, with all convenient speed, discover the same, and the party or parties therein concerned, to the Council, or some one of the Councilours, or to the Superior Officers, shall likewayes be liable to the same punishment. 5. He who shall intice or persuade another or others to any rebellious Act against the Council and Government of this Colony, shall incurr the pain of death, and whosoever shall know of such offences, and shall not discover the same to the Council, or to some one of the Councilours, or to his Superiour Officer, shall incurr the same punishment. 6. No man shall presume to contrive, endeavour, or cause any mutine or sedition within this Colony, upon pain of death, or such other punishment as the Justiciary Court shall think fit. 7. Whosoever shall disobey his Superiour Officer, or resist him in the execu- tion of his-Office, or shall oppose or resist any of the Magistrates or Officers of this Colony in the execution of their duty and trust, shall suffer the paines of death, or such other punishment as the Justiciary shall think fit. 8. He who shall violat any protection or safe conduct granted by the Council, and knowing the same, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as the Justiciary Court shall think just. 9. He who shall use any provocking or upbraiding words or gestures, or shall give the ly, or any manner of reproachful, scandalous, or injurious names, to another of equal quality and degree with himselfe, whether present or absent, or shall strike or threatn to strike such a one with his hand, stick, sword in the scabard, whip, stone, or any thing of like nature, shall, besides 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 115 giving honourable satisfaction to the party injured upon his knees, be therfore condemned to hard labour at the publick works for the space of six moneths, from which labour he shall not desist, withdraw nor desert upon pain of death, or such other punishment as the Justiciary Court shall think meet : And if such affronts or injuries shall be given or offered to a Superiour, the party offending shall be lyable to double the said punishment at least ; and if to an inferiour, the same shall be proportioned sutable to the nature of the ease, and the circumstances of the parties concerned. 10. No man shall presume to fight a duel with or send a challenge to another, nor shall any one presume to accept of such a challenge or appoint- ment to fight, upon pain of the sewrest death and highest infamy. And all seconds in duels and appointments to fight, and such as shall have known thereof, and shall not reveal the same, and the parties concerned, with all convenient speed, shall be equally lyable to the same punishment. 11. He who shall willfully hurt or maim any other, shall, sutable to the loss and value of his time, the grief and pain thereby occasioned, as also the expence of curing, and dissability of body thereby happening, be lyable to make full satisfaction ; and if the offender have not to pay, he shall become a seryant, and shall so continue untill full reparation be made to the party injured, and generaly the like full reparation shall not only be made for all manner of hurts, violences, wrongs, and dammages done, or caused or offered to be done, but the offender may be further punished, if the nature of the case shall require the same. 12. It shall be death for any man presumptuously and willfully to assault another by such means and weapons as shall put him in evident hazard or danger of his life. 2 13. All murder or willfull killing of any person shall be punished with death. 14. He who shall force a woman to abuse her, whither she belong to an enemy or not, shall suffer death for it. . 15. It shall be death to steal, or forcibly to cary or convey away from the Colony or its dependencies, any man, woman, or child. 16. House-breaking, and all sorts of robing or forcible thifts, shall be punished with loss of life, or of liberty, at the will of the Justiciary Court. 17. A Thief shall be oblidged to restore fourfold of the species or value of 116 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. the thing stollen and damnage done, the one halfe to the party injured, and the other to be equaly divided between the Government of this Colony and the discoverer of the theft ; and if the thiefe have not to pay, he shall be con- demned to hard service and labour at the publick or other works, untill the restitution of the value of the thing stolen and damnage done be made, and shall be afterwards obliged to serve the Government of this Colony and the discoverer of the theft for the space of a whole year. 18. All robing of Indian plantations or houses, stealing or taking of provi- sions or other things belonging to them, without their free consent, shall be punished as theft. 19. Cuting or breaking doun, or otherwayes spoiling of plantan walks, orange, leamon, or lime trees, or other trees, or fruits of use and for support of life, and all other willful waste and spoile, shall be punished as theft. 20. Whosoever shall presume to sell, imbasle, or willfuly spoile, break, or convey away any arms, ammunition, axes, hatchets, spades, shovels, pick- axes, or other necessars, or stores of warr, or working tools belonging to the Colony, whither committed to their trust or otherwise, shall be punished as thieves. 21. All willfull and apparent breach of trust, and designed fraud and cheating, shall be punished as theft. 22. All giving and taking of bribes, in order to delay, deny, or pervert justice, shall be punished as theft. 23. Things that are found may not be concealed, but shall be restored to the owner, if known, with all convenient speed ; and where the owner is not known, publick intimation thereof shall be given, otherwise the finder shall become lyable to suffer as a thiefe. 24. Benefits received, and good services done, shall alwayes be generously and thankfuly compensated, whether a prior agreement or bargain hath been made or not ; and if it shall hapen to be otherwise, and the benefactor be obliged justly to complain of the ingratitude, the ungrateful shall in such case be oblidged to give threefold satisfaction at least. 25. Whosoever shall absent himself, go away from, or desert the service of this Colony, or that of any particular person to whom they are bound, besides due chastisement of whiping, shall be obliged to serve a week for every day of such their absence or desertion. : 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 117 26. No man shall be confined or detained prisoner for above the space of three moneths without being brought to a lawful trial. 27.- All lands, goods, debts, and other effects whatsoever and whersoever, (excepting the needful and proper working tools of a mechanick, the proper books of a student or man of reading, and the proper and absolutely necessar wearing cloaths of any person,) shall, in the most ready, easy, and absolute manner, be subject to the just and equal satisfaction of debts; but the person of a freeman shall not in any sort be lyable to arreasts, imprisonment, or other restraint whatsoever, for or by reason of debt, unless there shall be fraud or the design thereof, or willful or aparent breach of trust, missapplication, or concealment first proved upon him. 28. In all cases, criminal and capital, no judgment or determination shall pass against any man in the Justiciary Court without the consent and concur- rence of a Jury, consisting of fifteen fit persons, to be nominat and chosen by the said Court in the ordinary and usual manner, out of such a number as they shall think fit. 29. Upon trials of persons or causes, the Justiciary Court shall proceed to examin upon oath ; and after having heard the prisoner, the party accused, or the party concerned, whither for or against the witnesses, the Judges shall afterwards give their opinions one by one, beginning at the youngest in years, and proceeding to the eldest, and shall conclude by majority of votes ; but if the votes be equal, the President shall have a casting voice ; and when Judg- ment or sentence is to be given, the President shall pronunce it. 30. No man shall presume to sit in Court, much less to act as a Judge, or be of the Jury in the case, and during the time that any cause wherein he is party, or any way interested or concerned, shall be under examination or trial. | 31. The Justiciary Court shall keep a Clerk or Clerks, who shall be sworn to make true and faithful records of all the proceedings of that Court. _ 32. No man shall presume to use any braving words, signs, or gesturs in any place of Council or Judicatur whilst the Council or Court is siting, upon pain of such punishment as shall be inflicted by the Court. 33. All things relating to trade and navigation, and not comprehended in or understood by these ordinances, shall be determined by the most known and practised lawes and customs of Merchants and of the sea. 118 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. 34. And Lastly, Any Judge or Member of the Justiciary Court, and every one of the Jury shall take a solemn oath duly to administer justice according to these rules, ordinances, and probation taken, to the best of their under- standing. ) Fort St. Andrew, Aprile 24, 1699. All the saids rules and ordinances were read and approven of, article by article, and afterwards past altogether. CoLuin CampBE.L, J.P.P. XVI.—SAILING ORDERS AND SIGNALS. By the Rieut Hon*£. Jonny Marquzs of TwEeppatg, &c., James Ear of Panmure, &c., S8- Francis Scorr of Thirlestane, Barronet, and - JoHN Hawpan, Baron of Gleneagles, as being the CommiTTEE oF THE Court or DIRECTORS OF THE CoMPANY oF ScoTLAND trading to Africa and the Indies, appointed by the said Court or Directors to give the Sailing Orders for the said Company’s Brigantine Ship the DispatcH, now riding in the River Clyde, &c.* By virtue of the power and authority to us given by the said Court of Directors, you are hereby ordered to pursue your voyage as formerly, pursuant to such orders and directions as you either have received or shall receive from Mr. John Graham of Dougalston and Mr. William Woodrop, two of the Direc- tors of our Company. And as soon as you are gott clear of all the Caribbee Islands, you are to proceed and make the best of your way to the Bay of Darien, and make the place called the Golden Island, which lies close to the shore, some few leagues to the leeward of the mouth of the great river of Darien, in and about eight degrees of north latitude ; and if, upon due search on the said Island, and upon the mainland just over against it, or near there- abouts, you should happen not to find or meet with our Company’s Colony * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. . 119 Caledonia, you are to bear to the leeward, all along the coast of the Main- Land towards Bocco de Toros.and Bocco de Drago, where you can not well fail to find them ; But in your way thither, along the coast, be sure to touch at the Island Old Providence or Sancta Catalina, where youl have intelligence concerning them. And if after all your search and enquiry after them you should happen (which God forbid) to despair of finding out, or meeting with them, then (and in that case only) you are to dispose of your cargo to the best advantage, in such manner, and at such places, as the said Messts- Graham and Woodrop’s instructions above mentioned shall direct you, without any regard to these our instructions, but as if they had never been given you ; tho’, in the meantime, we must recommend it to you, as near as you can, to make a running voyage of it, and shun, as much as possible, the falling in with any ships of warr or others who may happen to insult you ; and if any should, then you are to make the best resistance that you are able, and endeavour to escape clear ; but if so it should come to pass that you are in danger of being overpowered, then and that case you are to fling all your letters, orders, and instructions over board; But such danger we are not apprehensive of, and hope you'l have no oceasion so to do. And further, in regard that men are mortal, we desire that you may communicate so much of those orders as you shall think fitt to some one person or other on board in whom you have most trust and confidence, and to whom.you would give the charge of the ship and cargo next to yourself, in case you should happen to meet with any unexpected accident, (which God forbid.) And further, we desire that you may keep an exact journal of your voyage, as also an account of your proceedings with relation to the cargo, and of what money or goods you may happen necessarly to expend or advance to-any of your men upon the account of wages ; and in case any of them should happen to die, or be left ashoare any where, you are to mark the day, place, and in what latitude. But in all these cases we rely much upon, and refer mostly to your own prudence, conduct, and discretion, according to the different unforeseen con- sequences that may happen. However, not doubting but you'l (God willing) arrive in safety at our said Colony, we desire that immediatly upon your arrival there you may deliver our herewith inclosed letter, as directed to the Council thereof, and take your orders from them, with relation to both ship and cargo, untill you return again into Clyde. So wishing you a happy 120 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. voyage, and a quick return, we bid you heartily farewell. In testimony of all which, these presents are given under our hands at Edinburgh the twenty fourth day of February 1699. TWEEDDALE. FRANCIS Sob. PANMURE. J. HALDANE. To Andrew Gibson, Capt: and Commander of the said Company’s Brigantin Ship the Dispatch. Memorandum.—That the following signals were sent by the Brigantin above mention’d to the Council of the Colony, in order to be “observed for distinguishing all other ships that should thereafter carry the Cnr Commission. Stanats for distinguishing those ships that carry the Company’s Com- MISSION from any other whatsoever, &c., whenever they fall in near CALEDONIA, or any settlement thereunto belonging. When a Company’s ship comes as near the shoar as she ‘can with conveni- ency stand, she will lower her main top sail, and clue up her main top gallon sail, and spread an English Ensign from the main top mast head downwards, and fire five guns, giving some distance of time between each. Those ashoar in Caledonia, or in any of its settlements, or on board any of the ships thereunto belonging, whether in harbour or road, are to show a Scotch Ensign in any place where they think the same may be most discern- able ; and answer by firing the like number of guns. i And in case they perceive that the Company’s ship shall happen to be too far to leeward of the port or harbour, they are to fire eleven guns to let the said ship know that she is so. And in like manner, if they perceive that the Company’s ship shall happen to be too far to the windward, they are to fire nine guns, and kindle a fire on some remarkable Promontory to direct the said ship into harbour. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 121 XVIL—DISPATCHES AND LETTERS FROM THE DIRECTORS TO THE COUNCIL AT THE COLONY,—Fersrvuary-Junz, 1699. Ricut HONORABLE, Edinburgh, the 24th of February 1699.* We were very glade to have yours from the Maderas of the 29th of August last by the Genoese ship bound for Lisbon, as also your other of the same date and contents by the English Pink bound for Holland, not only because we had thereby an account of your welfare and safe arrival and meeting one another at the Maderas, but also because we perceive your wise conduct and good understanding among yourselves, which, of all things in the world, will - not fail of tending most to your honour and interest. We do assure you of the passionat concern, not only of the Court of Directors, but even of all con- cern’d in the Company in general, to support you in so just and honorable an undertaking ; yea, the body of this Kingdom is dayly more and more con- cern’d in your welfare and success ; and wherin we can any ways contribute to the advancing thereof, you may fully rely upon our sincere endeavours. No doubt you will meet with many difficulties, especially in the beginning, which will give you occasion to exercise your prudence, courage, and patience ; and we hope that God, who hath hitherto favour’d us and you, (maugre all the attempts of our enemies,) will carry you honorably through all your diffi- culties. We have had scarcity of corn and provisions here since your departure hence, even to a dearth, and poverty of course occasion’d thereby, which (to our regret) hath necessarly retarded us in our designs of sending you such recruits, as our inclinations did prompt us unto; yet, tho’ we have hitherto heard no positive account of your settlement, we have provided a good vessell, of about one hundred and fourty tunns burden, very well equipt, with fourteen gunns and good store of small armes, loadned with provisions only, viz. bisket, flour, pork, stock-fish, oyl, brandy, &c., under the command of a very well experienc’d Officer, well known in your parts, together with Captain William Vetch, and some other landmen, by whom we purpose to send you * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. Q 122 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. more full and particular advices, the said ship being to sail (God willing) in a few daies from Leith Road. But we having last week received advice from Spain, that that Court had got account of your being landed and a settling among their Governments in America, and that thereupon orders were sent to Cadize for equipping and fitting out four men of warr from thence to the West Indies, with design either to attack you, or at least to have a strict eye upon your motions, we thought fitt immediatly to dispatch this small Brigan- tin from Clyde to give you advice thereof; tho’ indeed more to shew our good will to you than for any other relief she can bring you. However, you will have a more particular account of our affairs from vty Commander and Supercargo of our said Brigantin, whom we have ordered to deliver you the few effects sent therewith, according to the Bills of Lad’ning and Invoyces under the hands of John Graham of Dougalston and William Woodrop, to whom we referr you for further particulars, in respect the said vessell is dispatched quietly from Clyde, without the privity or knowledge of any other in the kingdom than some more of our own number. We have ordered the said few effects to be delivered and disposed of to your order, which you are to place to our Company’s accot» giving us credit for the value in regard the same goes (as you know) upon a different foot from those other effects which you carried along with you, and you are to repay the same in returns as your conveniency will allow. And as for the Brigantin herself, tho’ we be very earnest to have frequent advices from you, and believe that none can bring any advice quicker, or at less charge, than the said Brigantin ; yet if you think that the said Brigantin (considering her qualifications) can be of any absolute use for your more pressing occasions there, we allow you to imploy even the ship itself, as upon mature deliberation you shall think most adviseable for your own purposes, giving our Company credit likewise for the value thereof. We doubt nothing of your watchfull eye over yourselves, which, if you have, and that God shall please to preserve you in health, we are not affraid of any efforts or attempts whatsoever that can be intended against you. We hope you have, long before this come to hand, dispatched one of your tenders to us with the needfull advices. Nor do we doubt but youl watch all opportunities to give us a particular account from time to time of your proceedings, and in what terms you either are, or are like to be, with the Natives, as also with those of any other Nations with whom you may have 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 123 reason to correspond, that we may be the better able to take suteable measures. Fail not to send us advice also from time to time of such things as you stand most in need of, to the end they may be first of all provided and sent to you ; and likewise of the several species of goods which you either have or may have in your parts fitt to be vended here or in any other part of Europe, and what- ever you send shall be disposed of to the best advantage, and your accot. credited with the value. It was an omission, when you went away, that we did not condescend and agree upon some certain signals for your Government and safety in distinguishing the ships of friends from those of enemies, at least ours from any others, whenever they approach your Colony; for which we send you here inclos’d the Signals which any ship carrying our Commission shall hereafter make whenever they come within a due distance of your settle- ment,* as also those returns which they] expect from you on the shoar for directing them into your harbour. So wishing you all health, unity, and suc- cess in your honest and lawfull endeavours, we committ you to the direction and protection of that God who is able to discomfitt the machinations and attempts of all our and your enemies ; in the confidence of all which, we bid you heartily Farewell, this being all that offers at present for, in name, and by order of the said Court of Directors, from, Rigut HoNoRABLE, Your affectionate Friends and most humble Servants, TWEEDDALE. J. HALDANE. PANMURE. FRANCIS Scorv. P.S.—This going in so private a manner, neither you nor any other of your people need be surprized that you have no particular account of or from your friends, tho’ by all we can learn taey are all well, and much in the same manner as you left them. But in a few days our other ship within men- tion’d being to sail in a manner known generally to most people that have any concern for you, they will no doubt send you such news and other accounts as they will think fitt. Entered according to order by me, Rov. Macxrnzin, Sec’y: to the saad Company. * See above, p. 120. 124 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. Edinburgh, the 15th day of April, 1699.* Our last to you was of the 24th of February, copy of which, together with an accot- of the several particulars therein mention’d you have here inclos’d, by which you may see how zealous we were for your welfare in sending those dispatches to you at a venture, even before we had any direct acco from yourselves ; but are sorry to find by advices come to our hands last week from Capt. Andrew Gibson, that the Brigantin under his command, which we dispatched freighted with beef, &c. for your use, was, by contrary winds and extreme boisterous weather, driven ashoar upon one of the Western Isles of Scotland. All the men are safe, and (as we believe) also most of the provi- sions, stores, rigging, &c.; but whether the ship herself can be got off or not, is more than we can yet tell; but there is a Gabert dispatched from Clyde to help to take her off (if possible) and to carry the provisions to Glasgow, when arrived at Glasgow shall be forwarded immediately by another vessell. And the said Brigantin and cargo being for your acco, the value, you know, is to be passed to the Company’s credit. Mr. Hamilton arrived here on Saturday the 25th ultimo, with the welcome news of your voyage and settlement, as did also Major Cunningham on the Friday thereafter, who have both given us abundance of satisfaction as to all those matters which you committed to their care and trust. And in answer to the several contents of your letter, we shall, according to your desire, give Mr. Hamilton fourty shillings p. week for his expences during his stay here. We heartily regret the number of your dead, and particularly the loss of your two Ministers, tho’ both you and we have reason to thank God that so few have died during so long and tedious a voyage, especially it being the first, and consequently the most dangerous; not doubting but that (God willing) a little time and experience may make that voyage a great deal more easy and agreeable to our people. We have, about three weeks ago, appointed some of our number to wait upon the Commission of Assembly (the General Assembly not being now sitting) for supplying you with good Ministers ; and there is so general an inclination here amongst all ranks of people to supply you with whatever is needfull that you need not doubt but suteable care will * From a certified extract in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 125 be taken to provide good Ministers for you as soon as conveniently possible ; and in the meantime we question not but you’ find it both your honour and your interest to discourage all manner of vice among your people, and to inforce your injunction by the example of your sober, discreet, and religious behaviour. We call’d a Council General both on Thursday and Friday the 30th and -31st ultimo, where a letter to the King was unanimously agreed upon, giving an account of your settlement, and of the French designs there or thereabouts, how they had been tampering with the Natives, &c., wherein we represent in a dutifull manner how much it is the interest of all his Maties Dominions, as well as an act of justice, to protect us, and you in your settlement; and in another letter to the Secretary of State, we expatiate at large on the several heads of our said letter to the King, and concerning the evil consequences that may attend a French Settlement in those parts, &c.; and we have reason to hope, and do believe, that his Matie will give us his gracious Countenance and Royal protection at this juncture. We are come to Resolutions to support your Settlement to the outmost of our power, by sending you ships, men and provisions, stores, and other ne- cessaries with all possible dispatch. For which end, and to signify what further supplies you are speedily to expect, we send you by this ship, the Olive Branch (whereof Capt. William Jameson, the bearer hereof, is Com- mander) tunns of good and wholesome provisions and other necessaries, the particular quantities, qualities, and prices whereof, together with the value of the said ship’s stores, rigging, gunns, arms, and others thereunto belonging—as also the charges of the three hundred land and seamen on board thereof, amounting in the whole to the sum of three thousand four hundred and eighty six Pounds, seventeen shill. tenpence é sterll.,—you have herewith inclosed. For which sum, we question not but that you] credit our Company’s accot- accordingly. And whatever returns you make from time to time, (of which any thing like a beginning would no doubt be very encouraging,) either on board of the said ship or any other, shall be duely placed to your Credit. We have also freighted another ship, to carry two hundred men more, with some provisions for your Colony as soon as possible. The Master of the said Ship is by Charter-party obliged, under the penalty of £300 sterll., to 126 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. be ready to sail the 26th instant (wind and weather serving.) We have like- wise given orders for equipping the Rising Sun and the Hope, (two of our Company’s ships now lying in Clyde,) in order to dispatch them with 550 men more, as soon as possible ; and to carry the needfull provisions, arms, and other necessaries. We shall also take care to send over the wives of such of your people as are married, whenever we think that you have built houses fit to receive families, and shall at the same time send some servant maids for cooking, washing, and dressing of Linnen, &c.; and whatever else we can spare by degrees that we think will be most necessary for you. Your Journal (we observe) contains several particulars which we could have wish’d had been written in a separate accot only ; but what we are most surprized at is to find that some of your number, as well as some other private persons, have sent several letters and copies of your Journals to several per- sons at London and in this place,—yea even to some who have not a groat’s share in the Company’s stock.* This, we think, was very unadvisedly done, being sensible of the bad use that had already been made of them ; and do, therefore, expect that, for the future, care may be taken not to send any accots of that kind to any person but what shall be directed under cover to the Court of Directors ; for it is not to be supposed that at so great a distance any of you can be so good Judges of the present state of affairs here or any where in Europe as we who have dayly accounts thereof. And the world is - so subject to changes that none of you can tell what alterations a short time may produce either in men or things. So that indeed the safest course both for your and our interest, is to have all your material advices wholly confin’d at first to such as are or shall be immediately concern’d in the administration of the Company’s affairs for the time, as being reasonably presumable to know the Company’s interest best, and who no doubt will always communicate or publish so much thereof as they will think proper or requisite for the common * Several Pamphlets were published in 1699, descriptive of the nature of the country and the proceedings of the colony. One of these, called “The History of Caledonia, or the Scots Colony in Darien in the West Indies, with an account of the manners of the inhabitants and riches of the country, by a gentleman lately arrived,” affords a detailed and distinct account of the adventure as far as ithad been conducted, corresponding with the circumstances developed by these documents. ———— a 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 127 interest of the Company and Colony, and certainly any in the Colony may easily fall upon other suteable methods to gratify the humours of their friends in Europe without descending to such particulars as may do harm, but can never do good. And you know we want not enemies enough, who are ready to catch at and lay hold on any thing, tho’ never so trivial, if it but seem to make against us. Some amongst you were so inconsiderate as to write of abuses in the packing of goods, &c., to persons who are not at all concern’d in the Company, and who can contribute nothing to the rectifying of any neglect of that kind otherways than by ridiculing the management. Others have written to people of quality, of misunderstandings between two contend- ing parties, driving on two different interests, namely, that of the land and sea- faring men; tho’ (beyond all doubt) we take it always for granted that no such distinction shall take place amongst you ; but that, as occasion requires, the seamen are to be assisting in any thing that is to be done ashoar, and in like manner the land men are to be assisting in any thing that they are capable of doing on board the ships. We hope you are wise enough to consider, that you are and ought to look upon yourselves as one people, of one nation, embarked in carrying on the same interest, and that your mutual safety is link’d inseparably together. Wherefore, we do now, once for all, seriously recommend to you to be extremely cautious in all such matters, and above all things to study mutual love and confidence in each other, unity in your Coun- sells, and a good agreement amongst all your people, so as to be every one in his station (as near as may be) subservient to the same end. Now that we have been so free with you concerning what we think amiss, we cannot but observe with satisfaction your wise and prudent conduct in gaining so much upon the Natives in so short a time, and question not but that you will lay hold of all opportunities to cultivate and improve that friend- ship as much as possible; and be sure you fail not with the most strict observance imaginable, to use the several Captains and Leaders of the Natives with a great deal of Kindness ; and we take this opportunity of sending a present to each of them, as a testimony of the esteem and friendship we have for them. We have also sent a present to each of their chief Ladies; the particulars of both which you have in a paper apart herewith inclosed. And as you regard themselves, so question not but that youl let slip no occasion of obliging the people by acts of tenderness and justice. 128 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. We earnestly recommend it to you to be very cautious of what strangers soever you admit into your harbours or settlement, and especially of Spaniards or French, because of their designs ; and of Native Irish, because of their pro- fession and inclination to the former. The taking of formal instruments of possession, in the terms of the Act of Parliament, and the extending of those instrumental possessions to the east- ward, westward, and southward, as far as the limits of the Spanish settlements, we look upon asa matter of great consequence ; and, therefore, you must not neglect, wherever you go within the bounds allowed by the said Act of Parliament, to take legal possessions by cutting of timber, building of hutts, and ordering some Natives to inhabite them, if you think not convenient to spare any of your own men ; as also by giving all those places names adapted to such places of this Kingdom as you shall think fit. So hoping that Almighty God, who has already blest you with so happy a beginning, will continue his favours in adding success to all your lawfull and honest endea- yours, and in protecting you from all the attempts and designs of your Enemies, we wish you all health, happiness, and prosperity, and bid you heartily farewell. This being what offers at present from, RigHt HonoRABLE, Your affectionate Friends and most humble Servants, ANNANDALE. Jo. ERSKIN. JAMES Mac.ura. TWEEDDALE. Jo. SHAW. Fra. Monrcomery. PANMURE. Pat. CAMPBELL, Davip DrumMonp. Fran. Scort. Jo. DRUMMOND. JAMES BALFOUR. Rosert BLACKWooD. WILLiaM MEINZIEs. A true copy. Extracted by me, Rov. Mackenziz, Sec 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 129 To Our trusty and well beloved Friends, The Rigut Hon®"2- the Councin OF CALEDONIA in America.* Rieut Hon®. Edinburgh, the 22d of April 1699. Yours of the 29th of August last from the Maderas by the way of Portugal, and your other of the same day and date by way of Holland, came safe to hand, which gave us abundance of satisfaction for the time. We have like- ways yours of the 28th of December last by Mr. Hamilton, who arrived here, by the way of Bristo, the 25th ultimo, as also your other of the same date by Major Cuningham, who arrived here on the Friday thereafter ; both which gave a general satisfaction, not only to us, but to the whole nation in general, that the Ministers in their several Churches gave public thanks to Almighty God for your safe arrival and settlement. And the several Corporations through- out the Kingdom did testify their satisfaction by publick rejoyceings, such as bone-fires, illuminations, ringing of bells, and all the other demonstrations of joy. And, in short, not only we, who have a particular concerne in your welfare, but also the whole body of the Nation, is dayly more and more em- barked in your interest. Our Council General hath, in a very dutifull manner, acquainted the King with what you desired might be represented concerning the place of your settlement, and what else was thought proper and necessary upon this occasion. And we have reason to hope, and do believe, that his Majesty will give us and you his glorious countenance and Royal protection, and that the Government of England will now find it their interest also to be friendly to us in the maintenance of your said settlement against the attempts of any foreign enemies. And the honour and interest of this Kingdom being now so firmly and inseparably linked with that of your Colony, you may depend upon our supplying you with ships, stores, men, arms, provisions, and other necessaries, to the outmost of our power, and that with all imaginable dispatch ; for a testimony of which we send you here inclosed some copies of our Acts and Resolutions, which were ordered to be printed and published. And we have now ready to sail, with the first fair wind, two ships of force, with about three hundred men, provisions, &c., which we question not will be at * From the original, thus addressed on the back, in the Miscellaneous Collection. R 130 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. you (God willing) about the time that this may come to hand, and perhaps sooner, with much more particular advices of every thing needfull for your information. We have also all hands at work in fitting out the Riseing Sun and two other ships of force from Clyde, which we hope will be also (God willing) ready to sail, with about six hundred men, &c., in five or six weeks time hence. And when once they are gone, we shall fall upon such further methods for sending you more men and supplies as shall be thought necessary and con- sistent with our power. We send this by the way of Barbados, under cover to our and your trusty friend Mr. George Mackenzie, Merct- in Bridge Town, oeing well satisfied of his fidelity and good inclinations to our Countrey, Com- oany, and Colony, by the testimony of Mr. Alexander Hamilton, his intimate acquaintance. We send you copies hereof also by the way of Jamaica, Antegoa, and New England, under covers to several other friends in those respective parts; and upon receipt of all or either of them, we desire that you aay write to us by the same several hands. Our Committee who gave your sailing orders is absolutely entrusted with the manner of corresponding with you ; and do therefore specially recommend it to your prudence not to dis- close this way of corresponding, nor any of those particular correspondents to any persou whatsoever, either here or with you. We have intelligence from Cadiz that the Spaniards are preparing to send a thousand armed men, under the command of Don Piementel, to be joyn’d with as many as he can draw together in the Indies, to make head against you. They are not so very speedy in preparations of that kind, but that we hope our Recruits will be at you before them, and (God willing) in much better condition. However, this is to put you on your guard, nor need you doubt but that the Spaniards will make their outmost effort against your Settlement. So recommending you all to the protection of Almighty God, not doubting of your continuing in firm uniiy and concord among yourselves, (which, under God, will be your best security,) we bid you heartily farewell, and remain, Rigut Hon. Your affectionate friends and most humble Servants, PANMURE. FRANCIS Scorr. Ro. BLacKwoop. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 131 To our trusty and well beloved friends, The Rigut HonoraBie Councin oF CALEDONIA in America.* Rigut HonoraBLe, Edinburgh, the 24th of June 1699. We wrote to you of the 22d April last by the way of New England, Bar- bados, Antegoa, and Jamaica, acknowledging the receipt of yours of the 29th of August from the Maderas, and of the 28th of December by Major Cuning- ham and Mr. Hamilton, &c., to which we refer. We need not send copies by this, having already sent, copies thereof and contents by Capt- Jameson and Capt. Stark, who sail’d from this in Company the 12th day of May last, and were safely pass’d the Orcades the 20th ditto with a fair wind at E.N.E., with 300 men on board, well appointed with arms, provisions, and other necessaries, and we hope they be safely arriv’d at your port long before this come to hand. This serves only to owne the receipt of yours of the 6th of March last, which came safe to hand last week, with all the inclosed papers to which it refers. We approve very much of your first steps in offering a friendly correspondence with the Spaniards, and the progress you have made in forti- fying yourselves, and in securing the amity of the Indians, which you are to cultivate to as great a pitch as possible; but what we are most sensibly touch’d at is the misfortune of Capt. Pinkarton’s shipwreck,y and falling into ‘the hands of his enemies by that unlucky accident. We little regard the ship and cargo, were we assur’d of ditto Pinkarton and Orew’s safety and libera- tion ; and we question not but you! use all reasonable means to procure their freedom. We are making all possible preparations to send you the needfull supplies, and question not but the Riseing Sun, and four ships more of con- siderable burden and force, will sail from Clyde once next month with a greater number of men than went along with yourselves. We think fitt to “acquaint you, that we have dayly advices of many by-accounts sent from your Colony to people at London, and likewise to some here, who have not made such use thereof as we could have wish’d ; but of this, and all other matters, you shall be more particularly advised by the Rismg Sun. In the meantime, we must, above all things, recommend it to you to be one in * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. t See above, p. 102. 132 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. interest and affection, to be unanimous in your Councils, and to haye a watchfull eye over any that may be of such a clattering, mutinous, and per- nicious temper as Harris has proved to be. He had two pacquets from Caledonia with your last to us, but from whom we know not. Rieut HonoraBe, ; Your affectionat Friends and most humble Servants, TWEEDDALE. Ro. BLackwoop. FRANCIS Scort. Ricut Hon®e. Greenock, the 17th day of August 1699.* — Our last to you was of the 15th of April, by Cap William Jameson, Com- mander of the Company’s ship the Olive Branch, and our other of the 1st of May last, by the hands of Capt- Alexander Stark, Commander of our Com- pany’s hired ship the Hopefull, Binning, of Borrowstouness, who sail’d both in Company from Leith Road the 12th of May last, and hope may, before now, be arrived safe, and in good condition, at your port, with the men, pro- visions, and other necessaries on board, consign’d to you for the Colony’s use ; copies of which two letters, and the several other papers therein mention’d, we, for the more security, send herewith inclosed. Since which, we have yours of the 6th of March last, transmitted by Doctor Blair of Jamaica to his Correspondent at London, by which we were glad to understand that you had advanced so far in fortifying yourselves: That Mr. James Montgomery, one of your number, with his detach’d party under his command, had been so successfull in defeating the first attempt of the Spaniards against your settle- ment, and that the Native Indians of your neighbourhood were so hearty and faithfull to you upon that occasion: That Captain Diego, in the gulph of Uraba, has, since that action, entered into a perpetual alliance and confedera- tion with you: That the other neighbouring Captains and Leaders of the Natives are included in that treaty, and that you have so fair a prospect of making them still firmer to your interest. We approve very much of your letters to the President of Panama and Governour of Santa Maria, and would be glad to know what answer you had from the former, but are very sensibly * From a scroll (subsequently partially filled up with trnscripts of Signatures, &c., to serve as a copy) in tlie Miscellaneous Collection. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 133 affected with the account you give of Captain Robert Pinkerton’s misfortune, but do hope that you have long ere now taken effectual measures for relieving of him, and all that were with him, upon that unhappy occasion. We have had none from you, directly or indirectly, since your said letter, which makes us long with impatience to have some further account from yourselves of your present condition. You see by this and our former how earnest we are to support you in your settlement as much as in us lies. And in regard that provisions have been both very scarce and dear in this countrey ever since your departure hence, and the transportation of them difficult and tedious, we thought you might be better, cheaper, and easier supply’d with provisions from the English Plantations, and gave you therefore a discretionary credit on our Company’s Cashier to answer such bills as you would have occasion to draw for provisions before the first of March next : but are sorry to find that our good intentions therein must, in all probability, prove abortive, because of the Proclamations which we are advised have been published in all the said Plantations against the supplying of your Colony with any provisions, stores, or other necessaries whatsoever, or corresponding with you in any sort, under very severe penalties, of which we make no doubt but you are ripely advised long before now, and must needs be far better judges of what effects these prohibitions may produce than we can be at this distance. However, as Provi- dence has been hitherto very favourable to the designs of our Company in defeating the many attempts that have been made to crush it in its infancy, so we hope the same Providence will still overrule and discomfitt all the invidious efforts of our and your enemies ; and as nothing can contribute more thereunto than a just regard to the all-wise dispensations of the Author of our being, we again seriously recommend it to you to be exemplary to others in virtuous and religious lives, which no doubt will be the best means to secure to you God’s protection and success to your lawfull and just undertakings. We send you inclosed an exact copy of some proposals given in to our Court from the Commission of the late General Assembly, to which we desire you may have a just and due regard ; and for a further explanation of the five articles therein contained, we referr you to the printed copy of a letter sent to you directly from the said Commission, who, as they have all along shown a great deal of zeal and affection to the interest of the Company, by their publick Prayers and otherways, so they have now manifested a particular care 134 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. of you by making use even of their authority over some of their bretheren, in providing good and able Ministers to supply the loss which you have had by the indeed justly lamented death of Mr. Thomas James and Mr, Adam Scot ;* and as we found in you a réady disposition to give them all due encouragement in the discharge of their minesterial function had they lived, so we question not but youl persevere in the same mind to their successors : And as we find that the Commission of the Church here have particularly instructed their bretheren now sent to be very dutifull and respectfull to you, so we seriously recommend it to you to countenance, respect, and assist them in the discharge of their duty, and to keep good order and discipline with relation thereunto. Tho’ we make no manner of doubt that you’l use your best endeavours to make suteable and seasonable returns to the Company from time to time for reimbursing them for the charge they have been at in establishing and supporting your settlement, yet in regard that the greatest part of your time must be wholly imploy’d and consum’d in discharging yourselves of those weighty concerns with which you are burden’d in the administration of your Government, and such other matters as must necessarly follow thereupon : Our Court of Directors thought it most advisable to send some person in whose capacity and integrity we have full and entire confidence to be aiding and assisting to you in looking after the immediate property and particular advantages arising to the Company in, upon, and from the said Colony, and have made a choice of Major John Lindsay, who is fully commissionated and instructed for that effect. We have also engaged and sent you Captain John Wallace and Captain Thomas Kerr, to serve the Colony in the quality of Engineers, the former to have ten shillings, and the latter five shillings Sterling p. diem, in part of which we have advanced Eighty Pounds Sterling to Captain Wallace, and Thirty Pounds Sterling to Captain Kerr: and for their further encouragement have appointed them to be two of the Overseers of the Colony. * “They had two ministers sent along with them, viz., Mr. James and Mr. Scot; but as they had small comfort among them while they were in their company, it pleased the Lord to remove them from among those that despised them and their work; for Mr. James died at sea before their arrival, and Mr. Scot died shortly after their arrival.”—Borland’s Memoirs, p. 23. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 135 We have also engaged and sent you Mr. John Jaffray to be fire Master and Bombardier for the Colony, at Ninty Pounds Sterling wages p. annum ; together with William Wood, Gunner, to be his Assistant, at Eighteen pence Sterling p. diem. We have advanced Twenty Pounds Sterling to the former, and Five Pounds Sterling to the latter, in part of their pay, besides some travelling charges, which youl see by the Invoyces. They have all served with good reputation in their respective capacities during the last warr, and question not but that you'l find them very ready and serviceable in their pre- sent undertakings ; and to render them the more so, we have sent along with them considerable numbers and quantities of stores, Instruments, and other necessaries, both for defence and offence, the particulars of which you see in the Invoyces. We have likewise sent one Mr. Robert Keil, a Goldsmith, who has made it the chief part of his business to understand the refining of metalls, and having reason to believe that he is pretty knowing in that art, we have laid out the sum of , to furnish him necessaries for the same ; and likewise one James Hunter, a Smith, who pretends to understand something of refining too, and is perfectly vers’d in the Art of coining of money and making of mills for edging of money, and can be very usefull to the Colony in several other respects ; as also one David Dovale, a Jew born in Curasao, who professes to understand and speak Spanish, Portuguese, Italians, French, Dutch, English, | and the Indian Languages spoken on your Coast, where, he says, he has been often; and says that both Messrs. Spenss and Barino know him very well. We refer him to you, for such encouragement as you find him capable to do you service. By all which you may see how carefull we are to send you as fit persons as we can find for the several purposes above mention’d. As to the number of all other persons, such as Overseers, Assistants, and Sub-Assistants, Gentlemen Volunteers, Tradesmen, and other Planters sent upon this occasion, we referr you to the inclosed Lists, amongst whom youl find many persons very capable of discharging of several offices that you may have occasion for. Upon receipt hereof, we question not but you'l be fully persuaded of our Company’s hearty and firm resolution to stand by and support your Colony as much as in us lies, for which end we send you now the Rising Sun, whereof Captain James Gibson, the Bearer hereof, is Commander, freighted with men, 136 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. provisions, and other necessaries, the particular quantities, qualities, and prices whereof, together with the value of the said ship’s stores, provisions, Gunns, arms, and others whatsoever thereunto belonging, amounting to the sum of ; as also the value of the Company’s other ship the Hope, commanded by Captain James Miller, and whole cargo and provisions on board thereof, amounting to the sum of ; as also the value of the provisions and other goods on board of the Company's two hired ships the Hope of Borrowstouness, commanded by Captain Richard Daling, and the Duke of Hamilton, commanded by Captain Walter Duncan; together with the charges of the | Land and Seamen on board of the said four ships, amounting in the whole to the sum of : you have in the inclosed respective Invoyces for the same. For which sum we desire that youl credit our Company’s account accordingly. And for your further and more exact information, we send you likewise the said Captain Richard Daling’s and Captain Walter Duncan’s Charter Parties with our Company, by which you may clearly see how to regulate yourselves with relation to the said two hired ships under their command. So recommending you to the consideration of our former advices to you, we remain, Rient HonoraBLe, Your affectionat Friends and most humble servants, TWEEDDALL, P. Jo. DRUMMOND. J. HALDAN. Jo. ERSKIN. Fran. Scot. Da. DruMMoND. Hucu MontTcoMEry. WiILL1AmM Woopprop. Jo. GRAHAM. WILLIAM ARBUCKLE. Jo. SHAW. Fran. MonrcoMERie. Pat. CAMPBELL. Ricut Hon®2e- Greenock, 18th of August 1699.* Tho’ our Committee has not had any letters from you since you left the Maderas, yet we never let any occasion slip without writing to you. Our first was of the 24th of February last by the Brigantin which sailed then from * From a scroll in the Miscellaneous Collection, titled on the back, “ Copy of a Letter from the Secret Committee, dated at Greenock the 18th day of August, 1699.” 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 137 Clyde, which tho’ miscarried by her misfortune, (as you must have heard before this come to hand,) yet we sent doubles of it severally by Captains Jameson and Stark, with whom we wrote likewise severally the first of May last ; nor were we wanting in writing to you by all the other ways and occa- sions that we could think of, and particularly by the ways of New England, Jamaica, Barbados, Antegoa, under covers to several correspondents in those respective parts recommended to us by Mr. Hamilton, some of which (if not all) we reckon may be come safe to your hands before now, tho’ indeed we know not whether the Proclamations, which we now understand are issued out in those parts against your settlement, might not have hindred our said letters from coming to your hands. By all of them, we not only gave you the assur- ance of our firm Resolution to stand by you, but gave you likewise such inform- ation of all that had then past amongst us that could be any way helpfull to you with relation to your management and government amongst yourselves, as we judged convenient to be put in paper, unless they were sent by an Hixpress and sure hand. You'l see by our letter from the Court of Directors, that upon the arrival of Major Cunningham and Mr. Hamilton, we sent an account to the King of your being settled in the Bay of Darien ; upon which he called for both the Secretaries of State for this Kingdom ; and, after some reasoning with them, the Lords President of our Session and Lord Advocat were sent for. We sent up likewise to London one of our number from the Company. It would exceed the bounds of a letter to tell you all that past upon that occasion; but that you may know how well your procedure and settlement was vindicated, we send you herewith a first and second Memorial* given in by our Secretaries, President, and Advocat, to the King, which occasioned (it seems) the Spanish Ambassadour’s giving in a Memorial against you; and that produced a conference between our said Ministers and some of the English Nobility and Ministers appointed by the King. We send likewise two other papers, one drawn by the President after the conference, and the other drawn since by another hand; and for the most of the other par- ticulars we referr you to Mr. Hamilton, of whose prudence and conduct we have had good experience since his arrival here, he having behaved himself very handsomely both with relation to the Company and Colony ; and as we * See the Memorials in the “ Full and Exact Collection,” p. 41. S 138 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. referr to him in what past at London, so we know he will give you an account of what he has been eye and ear witness to amongst ourselves. We haye been very solicitous to inform ourselves of every thing that might contribute to make your settlement firm and secure ; and amongst the rest of the advices we have had, there is one which we have got from a very intelligent person in American affairs, and a hearty wellwisher of yours, which we think worthy of your notice. He proposes that, besides the treaties of alliance which you have made with the Natives, that you may make a formal purchase of what Lands you can from the Indians, and take from them not only a disposition in the Scotch manner, bearing the particular names of all the lands which you have in present possession, or to which they’ give you a Right, (which names we desire may not be Spanish, but either Indian or Scotch,) but like- wise a deed of sale after the English manner, least we may have occasion to — shew it in after-treaties with that Nation. This we would advise you to do not only on the north side where you are, but likewise, as soon as possible, on some convenient place in the south sea, for certain reasons, of which you shall be acquainted in due time. We send you likewise inclosed a copy of Captain Long’s letters to the Council of Trade in England, by which you may see what his opinion is of you, and what he is about. We desire you may extend your formal possessions or pretensions at least as farr as you can, to prevent (as much as possible) other people’s coming in upon you. As for our men and provisions now sent, if they be not such as you expected, they are at least such as our present circumstances and the condition of the Countrey would allow of ; and as for the canon and bombs, there could none other be got. We have no further to add; but as we give you the assurance of our firm Resolutions to stand by you, so we hope you’ live in unity, peace, and concord amongst yourselves, and be very carefull not to admitt any forreigners or others into your society but upon very prudent and good considerations, for this, amongst others, may perhaps be one way that your enemies may think of to ruin you. The greatness of this accompt, and the success that God Almighty has been pleased to bless you with hitherto, has brought the eyes of all the world upon you; and as one part of it looks on you with wonder and expectation, so the other part of it doth envy you, and will, for a time, do all they can against you. But we hope, if it please God to bring this present recruit safely to you, time and good management will soon make them think 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 139 of courting our and your friendship ; this we may know by the carriage of some Merchants and other people who understand trade, and wish well to our neighbour nation, who are dayly making such propositions as in time we shall acquaint you with. As to what has happened amongst you upon this new Election of Councellours, and what may be the consequences of Mr. Mont- gomery’s, Mr. Jolly’s, and Mr. Murdoch’s coming away, your accounts are so lame, and our letter, in common with the Directors’, is so full, that we shall say no more about it. We have this minute got account of great preparations making against you. Mr. Mackenzie sends a copy of it to one of your number. So we recommend it to your serious consideration, and you to the protection of Almighty God, and are, RicHt HONORABLE, Your affectionate Friends, and most humble Servants, TWEEDDALE. Fran. Scorr. J. HALDAN. Greenock, the 18th day of August 1699.* Rigut HONORABLE, Since the writing of ours of the 17th instant, herewith inclosed, yours of the 21st of April is come to hand, the contents of which doth very much surprize us to find that any should be amongst you concern’d in any base and unna- tural design against the interest of either their countrey, company, or colony.t However, we must suspend our thoughts concerning what might have been in it untill we hear further from you, the account which you give now thereof being very short and unclear; and we are still the more at a loss what to think of it, when we find that after your discovery of the design mention’d in your said letter, Mr. Montgomery, Captain Jolly, and Mr. Murdoch are arriv’d at London. We must needs say, that, considering the power of your Grant, * From a scroll in the Miscellaneous Collection. + The letter containing these statements immediately follows. If the letters had been arranged according to their individual connexion with each other, the letter from the Colony of 21st April ought to have preceded this one; but it has been found the more expedient method to arrange them in groups, the letters from the Directors before they heard of the desertion of the Colony being printed consecutively by themselves, those subsequent to the desertion appearing afterwards. 140 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. you have hitherto shewn too much tenderness to persons who (it seems) had but little either for you or your Colony’s interest. Why deserters of any kind should be allowed to pass unpunish’d severly, is what we cannot understand, considering the charge we are at in transporting them and their effects, and that their transportation hinders so many more good men that would willingly — have gone in their room. We must say, it cannot but grieve us to think that when your settlement allarms, in a manner, most part of all Europe, and when the eyes of all men are intent upon the event thereof, we should be alarm’d, on the other hand, ever since December last with continued Reports of your jealousies, animosities, factions, heartburnings, and disagreements i: among yourselves, driving on different Interests, which (if true) is yery un- suteable to the mutual love, unanimity, and generous publick spirit which — t ought to be in persons imploy’d on such a noble design, and vested with such oi. power and trust as you are ; nor can we attribute it to any thing else but to your people’s being penn’d up in a corner close together, in a state of lazy idleness, as we are inform’d ; but we are still in hopes that a better spirit will reign amongst you, and that you consider yourselves as bretheren embarqued in the same Interest to acquire glory, honour, and adyantage to your Countrey, to the Company, and to your selves; and that contrary measures must pro- duce quite contrary effects. The Spanish Ambassadour has given in a Memorial against you to the Court of England. There are Proclamations in all the English Plantations against the aiding or assisting you with provisions or other necessaries whatsoever, or corresponding with you in any sort.* What effects these may produce we know not; but most people think that the generality of the Inhabitants of these parts wish well to your interest, and will, notwithstanding of those prohibitions, be perhaps more earnest to trade with you than otherways they would have been. We can promise you but little friendship from most of the Courts in Europe, tho’ we have reason to believe that you have many Wellwishers too among the trading people, especially of Brittain and Ireland. We cannot but approve of the just and * These will be found at length in two octavo pamphlets of the year 1700, viz.: “The original papers and letters relating to the Scots Company trading to Africa and the Indies ;” and “A full and exact collection of all the considerable Addresses, Memorials, Petitions, Answers, Proclamations, Declarations, Letters, and other public papers relating to the Com- pany of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies,” &c. : 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 141 cautious measures which you have hitherto observed with respect to all Nations, we having advised you so to do; but are sorry to see that the Spaniards in all probability are not to be gained by any means to be reconciled to your interest. You wrot formerly that you sent a flag of truce to demand Capt. Pinkertoun, and others prisoners with him, (deteaned contrary to the law of Nations ;) and that upon refuissal you wold endeavour to make reprisals. We are in dayly expectation to hear of the same. You know the powers granted by the Act of Parlt-in case any make breaches upon you, and every man expects you will exerce all these powers for your security and safety to the outmost of your power. And therfor we think fit to advise you, that if you be necessitate to take reprisals, that you grant Commissions to none but those who may find sufficient surety to be answerable and accountable for what reprisals they make that they return them faithfully to you ; and that you keep exact accounts of the value of any reprisals made by you, allowing reasonable charges to the takers of them. We are informed that the French are nowise our friends ; and therfore you are told to be very cautious in your deallings with them and trusting of them ; and we are affray’d that, under pretence of that wreck in your Bay, they make too frequent visits to you to discover your condition. We have already so often recommended unity and a good agreement among yourselves, and you have already seen so much of the bad effects of these discords, that either ambition, vanity, inconsiderate- ness, or self designs have rais’d among you, that we are in hopes we need give you no further precaution upon that head, since upon unity and a good understanding among yourselves, and the gaining the entire love of your people, must necessarly depend the full safety and security of your settlement. Nor can your enemies give you a greater blow than to foment jars and divisions amongst you. So wishing you all health, and pro- sperity, and strength, to withstand all the intended efforts of your enemies, We remain, Rieut Hon®, Your affectionate Friends and most humble Servants, TWEEDDALE, P. Pat. CAMPBELL. Jo. GRAHAM. J. HALDAN. Jo. DRUMMOND. Jo. SHAW. FRAN. Scort. Jo. ERSKINE. WILLIAM Wooprop. Hugu Monteomery. Da. Drummonp. WILLIAM ARBUCKLES, 142 THE DARIEN PAPERS. TO SCOTLAND, RELATING TO. THE COLON NY.— APRIL-SEPTEMBER 1699. se ip % Tue CounciIL oF THE CoLony To THE DrrEcToRs.* Ricut Hon®, Last week wee sent from this place a Brigantin of Boston, in New E1 with our dispatches to you. Mr. Mackay went along to inform you ful the state of affairs with us, and to negotiat what else might con home. This Brigantin is a tight vessel, and a good runner; and ¥ hopeful that, God willing, she will quickly make her voyage. oe This goes by way of Jamaica, in a small sloop which we have sual ut thither to see to procure some provisions, which this place stands greatly in need of ; and wee make use of that occasion to acquaint you wee had i ation given us by Captain Robert Pennecuick of a most villanous and t1 each- erous design that was lately carying on for runing away with the St. Andrew, ; P as you will understand by the declarations of Mathew Harman, an a to the plot, and of William Murdoch, formerly first mate on board the : Unicorn, who acknowledged he did reveal what he knew of the matter to Capt. Jolly some weeks ago. We hear that Mr. Montgomerie knew likewayes of it, de “a £ non of them ever made it known to the Council.— Both these Gentleme were on board two Jamaica sloops bound homeward, and under sail y res- a terday in the afternoon, when wee gott notice of it. Capt. Jolly « cae ts ledged he heard of it, and of much worse; all which wee thought fit Ce acquant you with. The principal contrivers yet known of are in pipes i: in irons; and wee will speedily make all further inquiry possible for e cating of the whole matter. We know this you will think very ee several wayes, and which was no less surprising to us. It must be very grievous to us, when we consider how such unnatural and dangerous enter- prises should be hatched among ourselves ; and in such a place, and atatime when wee could reasonably dread of no manner of hurt but from our pro- a * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. t See above, p. 139, and ast, % i 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 143 fessed enemyes. However, God hath been very kind in preserving us from sustaining much prejudice from either. We shall give you no further trouble at present. Wee remain, Rieut Hon®2z, Your most humble Servants, WILi™ PATERSON. CoLLIn CAMPBELL. THos. DRUMMOND. Sam. VETCH. Cua. FoRBES. Rost- PENNECUICK. Caledonia, Forte St. Andrew, Aprile 21, 1699. Letters—Gerorce Morrat to Messrs. JosEPH OrMSTON, ALEXANDER HAMILTON, and CoMPANY.* New York, y’ 12th Augt. 1699. I think it lyes not only incumbent upon me to give you the acct, state, and condition of your affairs under mine and other’s care and direction, but also, according to my judgement, the rise and decay of trade in this and other places of America. I am sorry that should have had occasion given to give an acct: of this sad and tragicall relation of our Scotts Affricane Company’s being obliged to leave Caledonia, not by the force of an enemy of Spaniards, but by that of famine and great mortality, which generaly rages both together. Now, that I may give a particular acct- according to information of this sad and fatall disaster, please know, that upon the 8th Augt. instant, arrived the ship Calledonia, Capt: Rot- Drummond Command'., att Sandy Hook, where she came to an anchor, said place being about 24 mile from this, and upon y® 4th came up to this place her pinace with s¢- Capt. and his brother and Capt. Sam!l- Vetch, the 2d Councellors of st ship, and Captains Drummond and Campbell, who were land Capts- with whom I hade had frequent convers, received yé® foll®. tragicall narration of their disaster and distressed condition, which easily might have been decerned, for famine and death was discerned * From Copies sent to the Directors with the original Letter by which they are followed, the whole being titled on the back “ Letter from Joseph Ormston to the Directors, to which foregoes copies of two Letters direct to him and Company from George Moffat, at New York, the 12th and 15th, 1699.” 144 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699; in ther countenances at the first aspect. You may know that allourCountry- men who were alive (though not in health) had left Darien about 6 weeks before their arrival here, and that att there departure they had divided all their men, sick and whole, victualls and comoditys, equally into these three — vessells, the said Caledonia, Unicorne, and y® St. Andrew, who were all baa to y® first Port Providence should carry them to; said Caledonia, 1 weighed first, lost, before her arrival here, after her leaving of Darien, 103 2 ie: men, and since about 12 or 15 more, most being landmen, though att present she has not above 65 that are fitt for handling of ropes, for both land and seamen drops off, partly by the change of dyet and climate ; for from y® one extreame of want they help to destroy themselves wt: that of plenty, though all of those of y¢ inferior sort has not the care taken off them that ought to be ; for Doctor Johnson, that lives in Jersey, told me that y® most, if not all, would recover, if due care were taken off them, but was not possible for y® Officers att present to take y® same. Considering now their present cir- cumstances: at first comeing to this place, y® Capt. of said ship, Capt. Thomas Drumond, his said brother, and Capt. Sam! Vetch, who are y® said two Councellors, went to pay their respects to y® Leftt- Govent- of this place, my Lo. Bellamont being still att Boston, and to give him acct of their present sad circumstances, and to know whither, upon their present emergency, he would please allow of their trocking of their comodities that they have aboard for provisions,—I mean as much as they had occasion for dureing their stay here, and at their goeing away, 3 or 4 months, (which, considering their present extreamity, all Nations will allow off ;) upon which a Counsell was called to know what was best to be done in this affair, and it was resolved that nothing could be done till an answer came from my Lo. Bellamont, who is Governour in this place, and is now att Boston, which answer is not yet come : But saids Councill did allow y® saids Captains to buy provisions for his present expending upon credit of y® Affrican CompY, upon credit or for mony, but not to dispose of any goods till further orders. Now, y® disposall of said goods was y* more excuseable, seing y® saids CompyY has no credit in this place, which omission is not to be excused in y® Directors and Manadgers of y® Collony att home ; for its not to be expected that the establishing and carrying on of Collonys abroad can be done without being both supplyed with men and provision from home, which have been all neglected ; for during the 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 145 time they stayed att Darien, which was about 7 months, they had not y® scratch of a pen, nor know not what to make of ye dubiousness of there present condition, I mean before they came away, especially seing they had certain information of a proclamation, under his Majesties hand and seale, directed to all y® English Collonies in America, discharging any of his sub- jects, under perill and penalties therein mentioned, to supply any of y® Scotts CompyY at Darien with any sort of provisions, which has been executed accord- ingly. Now, doubtles our Directors att home could not be ignorant of this ; for sure it was not done in a corner, therfor their intrest was for propa- gateing of saids Collony, whether said proclamation had been or not, (as so true it was,) to have ordered credit both here, att Jamaica, Antegua, and y® Leeward Islands, especially att Barbados, which, if they had done, they could have been supplied from all said places, notwithstanding of said procla- mation ; for, to say the truth, they doubted more y® credit of saids Company then the severity of said Act. For my part, if this had been done, I am apt to believe they had all continued in a thriveing condition ; for there was nothing else obliged them to leave Calledonia but meer want. I wonder that after y® establishing of such a vallueable and impregnable place should be thus abandoned, and not forced to it by an enemy of men, but by that of want, and by mismanadgement both at home and abroad; for many that were Councillours were both young and not qualifyed for so great an affair, did raise great dissentions, partly by their present and partly by their future preferrments, some not able to bear their present good fortune, but ambitious of raising themselves higher, by which that was of gratest concernment was partly neglected ; however shall leave this, knowing that you will have very shortly from home a full acct- of all, I wish the executioner may have nothing to doe—know likeways that y* said 3 ships had but att there comeing away 300 men each, and now the Caledonia that is come in has not 150; and for any thing I know 50 are sick. Now, you may be perswaded that this mortality and sicknes did not come by the unholsomness of yé place or climate ; for they all agreed the place is very wholesome, the heat moderate, y® water extraordinary good, and y® soil surpassing beleif ; all sorts of grain will come to perfection 1 month sooner there then any where else. Capt. Vetch, Tho. and Rot- Drummonds, who are all so concerned att this disaster that they are now sick,—if any thing should befall them y® whole intrest will suffer T 146 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. thereby,—all of them told me that pease would come to perfection in 5 weeks’ time ; that sugars grow there, but the natives have no mills, neither doe they know the use therof, only sweeten their drink with the juice of the cain, which is the reason why so little is planted ; likeways, that y® gold dust may- be discerned there in quantitys in their small rivers, Some of the Natives are as white as any Europians whatsomever. They have severall times offered to take them to y® golden mines, which are not above 30 leagues _ from Darien ; but they being so taken up with their fortifyeing thereof, and doubting, after they had secured themselves, but y® mines would haye been not their owne, saids place they have fortified and pallisaded very strong, by cutting y® narrow nick of land 16 foot deep and 16 foot broad, by which they have made y® place impregnable. They mounted 14 or 16 large guns theron ; but sickness, mortality, and want increased so amongst them, that they were forced to leave the place without demolisheing it ; only brought their guns along with them ; a tragicall period of our Scotts American affair, which can not well be repared but by the arrivall of y* Riseing Sun, and reestablishing said place, &c. 15 ditto. Forgoeing is coppy of my last. On y® 13 instant arrived y® ship Unicorn, now commanded by Anderson, in a very distressed condition, haveing in y® latitude of 10 lost her foremast, fore topmast, and mizan topmast, so that it was with great difficulty she came in here, being ill manned, hayeing lost in her way 150, whereby Capt. Forbes, a Councellor, was 1, and Capt. Dallyell, with 4 subalterns more, all dyed naturally, and there was more than 60 sick ; so that doe beleive there is not soe many seamen whole in both ships as would’ man one, and thers few or none to be gott heir ; so that, by what I could learn from y™ they doe designe to fitt out the Calledonia as speedily as they can, and send her home to Scotland ; for y* other, I am told £1000 will not fitt her out, not including provisions. She must continue heir till a fresh supply of men come from home. Y¢* Deputy Governour proposed their comeing up to towne to lye under the guns of y* Fort, but they would not, and there is no reason for it, so they lye 5 or 6 miles downe yé river. Capt. Penicook, Command: of ye St. Andrew, was near, and saw the sad distress of ye Unicorne, yet did not lend any assistance. Most of all exclaim wonderfully against him, not only for this, but other faults. In all there discourses they give Mr. Paterson his due praise ; for truely, 2 - oa ee fee ¥ _< moe Sees A ee oad at . ar ee = wees S a ~~ — ee ~~ ~ i 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 147 by what I could learne, he hath been both diligent and true to ye end. He hes been, and is mightily concerned att this sad disaster, so that he looks now more like a skeleton than a man. He is now indisposed, (God grant he may recover,) for the loss of him will be greater than every one thinks. I have had frequent convers with him since his arrivall in ye Unicorne, whom y® St. Andrew left in y® latitude of 10, shortly after they came out. The said St. Andrew was y® best man’d, but whats become off her we know not as yet. This is all the acct I can give, only I am to sett forward for New Foundland. The within-written is a copy of a letter I receaved from George Moffat, my servant, who is supercargo of a ship which arrived at Sandy Hook, near New Yorke, the 29th of July last, continued at New York till 16th of August, when she sailed for Newfoundland, and arrived there the 6th or 7th of Septr., where they found the ship the Reserve, Capt. Beckford, Commt- ready to depart for England, by whom st Geo. Moffat wrote me the 8th Septr., and thereon sent me the letter, of which the within is the copy. S84 ship, the Reserve, sailed the 8th Septr., (as I am informed,) and arrived the 29th at Plymé6, but not early enough to send the letters by that post, so that I receaved not my packett till yesterday. London, Octr. 5th, 1699. JOSEPH ORMSTON. LertEr—ApAm CLEGHoRN to BAILIE BLAcKwoop.* August 14, New York, 1699. Sent p. Newfoundland. Batty BLAKEWooD—S*. Knowing you to be a person of generous principles, and your publick spiritedness in your country concerns, I thought it reason sufficient to give you the following accompt of our Scotts African Companies misfortunes in this place of the world. Likewayes, least you or any of the rest of the Right Honourable Directors of the said Company should be als great strangers in knowing of the condition of their Collonie abroad, as they have been of the * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. It will be seen that, to a certain extent, this and the preceding Letter are nearly identical. 148 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. proceedings of the saids Directors att home, it might tend to our countreyes greater misfortune, if greater could be, then what folloues. Upon these con- siderations, I take it upon me to informe you of what folloues. Know then, Sir, that upon the second of August instant, the Caledonia, whereof Capt. Rot: Drummond is Commander, his brother Captain Thomas and Captain Veitch are the tuo Councellours of this vessell, arrived att New York ina very distressed condition, for famin and death was discovered in all their countenances at the first aspect, with whom having had frequent converse, I received the following tragicall narration, viz. That all our countrymen who had been in Darien had left the place about six weeks before their arrival here, and that att their departure they had divided all their men, victualls, and commodities, equally into these three vessells, the Caledonia, the Uni- corn, and the St. Andrew, who were all bound for the first Port Providence should carry them to. The Caledonia, which weighed anchor first, has throuen overboard one hundred men, who died since they left Darien, their whole com- plement or equall share of men being but three hundred in all, and yett they reckoned themselves the healthiest ship of all the three ; and notwithstanding of all this, they have loosed and are loossing men, who are dyeing dayly in this place since ther arrivall ; and with the change of food, from one extreame of want they destroy ymselves with y® ofr extreame of plenty. The cause of their leaving Darien was, as they say, for want of provitions and fresh supplies from Scotland. Besides, they add that they never had soe much as one letter or scratch of a penn from the Company all the tyme they were a standing Colony. Thus despairing of supplies, and a great sikness and mor- tality befalling their men, they thought fitt rayr to commit ymselves to the mercy of the seas with their remaining provitions then to dye upon the spott without hope. This sickness was no wayes occationed by the unhealthiness of the climate, which all of ym say was very wholesome, only mere want starved ym out of the place. As for the other two vessels, it is not knouen what is become of ym as yett: But it is expected that we shall here from them soe soon as they shall arrive att any of the adjacent Ports to this place. Now, 8S, I most begg pardon to exoner Mr. Pat Craufurd and my selfe since wee were entrusted from Scotland with the Company’s Act, dated 18 of Aprill 1699, made for security of those that should have furnished this Collony with provitions ; for wee were making all dispatch imaginable to ae” 9s Se a oe 4k ee 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 149 send thither sloops with provitions to them; but were surprised by their unexpected arrivall here befor that we was rady, for wee had not been above fourteen dayes in N. York, where wee disposed our goods dureing that time alls quickly as possible, in order to accomplish our designs. But this unex- pected neues had altered all our methods and resolutions, to our great greife and discontent. I have been adviseing the Gentlemen in this vessell to take provitions sufficient with them, and I wold goe alongst with them my selfe, hopeing, thoe they have left the place, that yet the Riseing Sunn might be arrived there since their departure to Darien ; but they intend directly for Scotland so soon as they cann be able to man out their vessell, which I fear shall not be in haiste, both for want of seamen, as allso for the unkind usage they ar like to be trysted with from y* Government and Governour of this place ; for doubtless ye know how that no vessells except English bottoms ar suffered to barter goods for provitions, as also how much the English have been peckt att our Scotts concerns all along, during this Companyes proceedings ; yea, they made ane Act of Parliment, which I never heard of while in England, prohibiting upon most severe penalties all tradeing with them, which was the cause they were soe hard putt to it, or soe ill provided from the West Indies, or the better parts of America. I most beg leave to observe, that our Com- pany att home has somewhatt overseen themselves in not fixing ane Factor or two att N. York and Jamaica ; for if that had been taken care of, supplies of men and provisions had been easily furnished from these places, and that notwithstanding of all English Acts to the contrair. Besides, your letters had been carefully furthered betuixt the Company and its Collony, partly for want of which wee have mett with this first and greatt disaster. I am informed allso that there was some divisions amongst y® first elected Councel- lors, some of them being too hote headed, and ofrs of ym no wayes train’d up to soe great affaires, their agreement on this head was not soe greatt as was requisite, many young men of them being swell’d wt the expectationes of their futur and present preferments, forgett all oyr things but some punctilios of honour, which was alltogither extrinsick to the great trust committed to them. And Mr. William Paterson, who has this generall applause, that he was concerned in this affaire to the outtermost degree of diligence, was very uneasy wt these young Gentlemen’s misbehaviours. Oh tragicall period of our Scotts African affaires, which can never be repaired, excepting only that 150 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699, the Riseing Sunn be arrived att Darien, and keept possession of the place untill further reinforcements be made. But we know nothing of sisi | Ree: || advice, only wee project what tends most to our encouradgement ‘in that ae affair. This is all the accompt I cann give you att the time. Hoping m r shall give you better hopes, or els that you may have better information fi other places, is the earnest desire of, aa Sir, Caprain Co~in CAMPBELL to the Court or Direcrors.* Ryut Hono™. Port Royal, August y 18th. ten I thought it proper to acquaint you, yt ane inevitable necessity, occa- sioned by want of provisions, and a great mortality, oblidged us, upon ie tuenty first of June last, to leave our new Settlement in Caledonia. Next day after wee sett sail, we lost Company of y® Caledonia and y® Pink; and two nights after y° Unicorn lost her foremast, fore topmast, and main topmast, as y® bearer can further acquaint you. Next day after, we were pursued by y® Barlavento fleet as they were a goeing from Portobell to Carthagena, which drove us to y® westward als farr as Providence and St. A soe ie them.) Lett itt therefore suffice you to know, y* after y* loss of Capt. Peniial La | 1 cooke, and most of our Sea Officers, and a hundred and thirty or fourty of ea “y. our men, wee, upon y¢ ninth of this instant, made ye leeuard part of this Island. And nott being able to make this place, I uas necessitate to carry , y® ship to Bleufeilds, and made it my bussiness, with all possible heast, to waitt upon y® Governour, and accordingly I uas with him yesterday, and acquainted him of all our circumstances, butt he could by no means suffer me to dispose of any goods for supplying my men, altho’ they should starve. - * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 151 Then I came to this place to advise with Dr. Blair, butt he is so indisposed y* there is no access to him. In y® next place, I uaited upon Admirall Bembo, and applied myself to him for some men to assist in bringing y® ship here, (she not being safe where she is,) butt was refus’d ; soe y+ I know nott in all the world what to doe; for I am certain y* seamen will mutiny, and play y® devill, for they have nott a weeke’s bread ; and besides, they expect to have their wages here, and will infallibly apply to the Governour for condemn- ing of y® ship, but Tle endeavour to prevent yt The only encouradgement I have is from y® Master of a sloop here, who, upon ye tuelth instant, see one of our ships, of eighteen guns, loaden with provisions, near by Caledonia, aboard of whom he sett a pilote to conduct them to y® place, yt they might have some water, and afterwards to bring them here. If she comes I shall reckon myself happy ; but if she doe nott, I am afraid y* y* best of my endea- vours will hardly save y® ship. Thus I have givin you a short account of my misfortunate circumstances, and impatiently wait, and very much want, your advice, which is earnestly entreated by, Ryt- HonBle. Your most obedient and obliged serv* CoLIN CAMPBELL. The men y* were in y® ship gave account to y® Master of y® ship y* they left y? flyboat at Antego, and their Capt. aboard of her, they being sevred from their anchors. Mr. Bortanp to Mr. Macxay.* Mr. Dant- Mackay—Ss- Boston, 7th September, 1699. The foregoeing, a coppy of my last advice.t Possibly before this come to hand, you may have the sad accot- of our freinds you left att Caledonia ; their deserting ye place, and bringing off all their people and gunes from thence on y® 21 June; two of y® ships arrived att New York, but ye St. Andrew not heard of as yet; greatly feared what become of her, unless put in to South * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. ft A letter on private business, which it was deemed unnecessary to print. 152 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. Carolina ; upon y? first week in August, a great ship seen by ye Indians on that coast, about Cape Roman, with many people on board, which sent y™ boat on shore to kill hoggs, as y® Indians say ; this was about 10 leages to y¢ northward of Charlestoune, as am told by a man lately arrived from thence ; the news of it brog* by y® Indiaus two dayes before he came away, Capt. Drummond advises me he lost 105 men in his passage, and y® Unicorn 150 or 160 men, with her foremast and main topmast, and the ship in a very shattered condition ; she hes not now above 12 seamen left, as Mr. Menzies tells me, lately from York. The reason of their comeing away, Capt. Drum- mond advises, was want of provisions and liquors, being forced to eat yams, &e., which broght sickness amongst y™- that had not healthfull people to watch and ward, and dying 10 or 12 in a day, not through any unhealthfullness of the climate, but meerly want of wholsome dyet and liquors, the climat accknowledged to be healthfull by y® generality of all y® persons come from thence, as doe understand. You now see the effects of the prohibitions published in all ye plantations—it may be reckoned the intended effects. It’s very sad, and much lamented by y® generality of people here. Mr. Paterson, at New York, in a crasie condition as to health, had a line from him last post ; Captain Drummond’s brother there allso, and Capt. Veach, know not any thing of Mr. Lodge. The Indians, much concerned about their comeing away, have promised them no other nation shall setle there ; y® fort not demolished ; a French sloop there, or near to it, when they came away, of dangerous consequence, but some hopes y¢ second recruits might prevent any designe of theives. It’s said y* 5 saile of ships at St. Thomas Island from Scotland bound to y® settlem*- about y* midle of June, reported for a truth by a man y* came up to Antigua ; this wants confirmation here ; but upon y® 24th and 25th July two ships past y® Island of Nevis full of people bound there, one a sort of a heck-boat spoke with all by a Master of one of our vessells on board his vessell at anchor, by sending their boat aboard, and told him they had 200 people on board all weell ; and enquired for another ship y® Consort, which past y® Island y® 29th day ; am in hopes they are now in possession of y® place ; we may expect to hear from thence in a month’s tyme or less; am told there was six sick men left behind upon y® place, and letters for those yt might come p. the Rising Sunn, &c. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 153 You may now perceive that a correspondence setled here att New York and Barbados was wanted ; had such been ordered with effects belonging to y® Comp. ; and orders to have sent to y® setlement upon yé first provisions and liquors, had in ane ordinary way prevented this miscarriage. It will be needfull yett to setle such a correspondence with effects of y® Comp., if y°® place keept, as hope it may be; and hope there will be yet vigourous indeavours used by all concerned (which ought to be y® wholl nation) to maintaine that noble designe of so great concerne to y® nation. If a ship or two be orderd to Guinny to supply you with Negros yearly, and care taken to - gett a few men from any of y® Carribbee Islands, or St. Thomas Island, that understand planting, it will in a short tyme raise a great deall of provisions and rum, &c. both for a supply of y® garrison, &c.; and if the prohibition recall’d, will occasion a great addition to y® Collonny in severall respects, and render y® correspondence here, &c. much more easie and saife. Scots linins, weell sorted, and bog*- according to your memorandum, a great quantity y'of will vend here, nothing neere y® like quantity att N. Yorke ; and the Restrainte now on French linens will occasion a great vent for Scots linens here, if imported. Capt. Drummond, its thought, may be perswaded to returne ; but impossible to fit out y® other ships, unless had more men; they cannot be supplyed with provisions, but for to goe home ; but y® same quantity will doe either way. Believe the Directors may find it convenient to fitt out a ship with men for New York to carry awaye the Unicorne ; or possibly may hyre a Virginia ship from New Castle to take aboard so many sailers as thought meet to carry off ye other ship: sailers not to be gott here. If they send some men y* understand cutting logwood, may doe, or believe they may gett some here or att New York, that may put through a method, and that are pylots. You know our money is 123 p. cent. more for value than N. York money, qc is ye usuall course we remitt att by bills ; so that am of opinion it may be needfull to setle a correspondent att each place, y® one may be very helpfull to y® other. If flower cheaper there (though not allwayes ; its now cheaper here 12d. p. C. or 18d., as doe understand) yet porck is usually cheaper here, allso fish and oyll, and butter, tarr, and some other things. A Gentle- man of our Nation there, Mr. Pat. Craufurd, lately from London, with but 8 U 154 THE DARIEN PAPERS 1699. packs linens, cannot sell them there ; thinks * some hither, as advises me. “whl Mr. George Anderson, lately gone for New York, expect a line from them p- nixt post y® 9th instant. I advised att first yt was thought fitt to send ane express to y® second recruites with all expedition, if not any sailed. Mr. Anderson’s vessell will be quickly dispatched thither, allso Mr. Cockburn’s and Portefeild’s ; all which thought myself oblidged to advise you is the needa offers, with very tender respects. We are now come to y® 13th Sept'- Since y® foregoeing, Mr. Aon advises me from New Yorke of y® 24th instant, yt about a weeke agoe, a Briggantein arrived there from Carthagena, and ye Master hath it doune in his jurnall yt upon y® 10th day of Aprill, Capt. Pincarton, and three other the principall men yt were with him, were hanged, which is very bad Newes. — Am allso advised, which believe comes p. y® same vessell, yt 12 dayes after y® place was deserted, y* was 5 saile ships (which suppose) y® Rising Sun, &c. arrived ; and att y® midle of July were in possession of y® place in good health, they are called 1200 men, which hope will continue there while y® other ships come to joine them; y* past news. Its allso said they want Ministers againe ; y"for pray mind to have a supply of Ministers ; this Newes is private heere as yett, but hope its true ; shall add further, if any thing ells occurrs before sealing. We are come to y® 18th Sept" Mr. Anderson this post advises that y® Com. will have bog*: a small sloop, and yt Capt. Thom. Drumond designes to goe in her, may saile by Thursday nixt, and designes to touch att St. Thomas Island ; y® Caledonia will follow as soon as ready ; and Mr. Cockburne and Comp. may saile this week, as the needfull offers, with very tender — from, Sir, Your friend and servant, JOHN BoRLAND. It’s now y® 19th Shre. Yesternight late, Mr. Anderson’s from Rood Island, —_~ * Obliterated by the seal. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 155 4. y® 18th, advises y* on Friday last Capt. Thom. Drummond, y® Conseler sailed in a sloop with a small quantity of provisions, arms, * healthful and experienced people for Caledonia ; y® Unicorne to be laid up ; and y® Caledonia’s seamen hearing she is to returne back take * opportunityes to be gone; so y* he sayes, it seems impossible for Capt. Drummond to returne with his ship, though his is much for it ; that Mr. Paterson hes lost his sences, and does not medle in any thing. Y° govermtt of New York take all wayes imaginable to insnare our people y* |they] may seize their ships; but Capt. Drummond never comes to toune but under night. These things look badly, and am much concerned for them. Our people have been too delatory, or might have dispatched ye Caledonia before this tyme. I long to hear from y® place, and am fearfull of y® state thereof. If this difficulty overcome, should have good hopes; believe needfull to address his Majestie for some ships of war, especially seeing yé ill effects of y® prohibition for divers were goeing to y® place y* y® prohibition prevented from severall ports in y® Indies. We hear y° English like to be concerned in y® setlement, & all. CREDENTIALS for Captain THomas Drummonp, one of the Council of Caledonia.+ Wee, the representatives here of y® Councill of Caledonia, takeing to consideration how much we are obleidged still (notwithstanding the many disasters Providence hath been pleased to tryst us with) to endeavour by all means, and use our utmost diligence for the supporting and carying on of that undertakeing which wee are now embarqued in; and considering how much it would conduce to the good of the said undertakeing, that the ships designed for Caledonia were informed of our circumstances, of the nature and situation both of the harbour and landing ; and that it was impossible to doe it other- ways then by sending a sloop, considering our ships conditions (as the Bearer will informe you;) ytfor, knowing none either so capable, willing, and well qualified upon all accounts, both for his zeall for the undertakeing, his know- * Defects caused by the removal of the seal. + From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection, 156 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. ledge of y® coast and countrey, both by sea and land: Wherfor we desire to make knowne to all concerned, whether Councillors or Directors att home, that wee have commissioned and intrusted Capt. Drummond to give you full information as to every thing relateing to our circumstances, or what may conduce to the good of yours, to whom we desire yow may give intire credit ; as also wee have intirely intrusted him with the command, ordering, and dis- — poseall of her, and all goods and things belonging to our Sloop the Ann of Caledonia ; wherfor we order and require all concerned in her, and particu- larly you, Captain Alext Stewart, with all under your command, exactly and punctually to obey the said Capt. Thomas Drummond in every thing as you'll be answerable. Given under our hands, and sealed with ye CompyY seall att New York, September 10th, 1699. Signed by W™- Paterson and Saml- Veitch. ne “| LetreErR—Captain SAMUEL VEITCH to his BRoTHER.* Dear BROTHER, New York, September 20th, 1699. The strange providencies which I have been witness to, and in some measure partaker of, since I saw you, and which have concurred to my come- ing hither, have made me often say with the Psalmist, that his wayes are in the deep water, and his paths past finding out. Oh, how small a pairt of him is knowne here, and though most of them have been very dark and cloudie dispensations, which have proven fatall to many, yet 1 am forced to acknowledge that his mercy is above all his works, and his loveing kindness past expression to me-wards. I find by experience still more and more that piety is the best policy, and sincere honesty the surest way to honour. The bearer hereof, Capt. Drummond, my entere Comerade, (and whom I earnestly recommend to make yours,) is a person with whom, and with his broyt- the Captain of the Caledonia, I have had a particular intimacy ever since wee left Scotland, and to both of whom I owe as much as to a brother ; and must acknowledge to both their praises, that the better I am acquainted with them the more I discover the honesty of y™ intentions, and their particular qualifi- * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. a bs ee a iv 4 ¥ a 7 ~ “ ee eer FP —*) = ~ a, a Se 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 157 cations in their different stations, to serve this interest ; for the bearer hereof, I must say it, without disparagement to any of us, (though I’me sory there are so few who came along with us of whom I have any thing that’s disad- vantageous to say,) that he hath done more for the promoteing of this interest than all that have come out of Scotland yet, and should I say that he still is capable to doe more than any shall come in haste, it would be no hyperbole ; for besides his capacity in giveing godd advice, his singular application to business, his indefatigableness in action and exercise, together with his univer- sall mechanicall genius, with his particular skill in fortification, gunnery, and navigation, have carved him out purposely for this undertakeing. His present expedition, in so small a sloop, att such an uncertainty, is a singular testimony of his zeall for the cause. He will informe you how wee have been circum- stantiat with Paterson’s knavery or folly, or both, and every thing goeing cross with us here. He can also informe yow about every body you will ask for. I believe I shall be here all winter, att least till areturne come from him or you. I am sure I can doe more service here then att home. If you resettle y* place, faill not to send by yé first a bill of att least two thousand pounds, drawne in Thomas Winham and Stephen Delaney’s name, and addressed to me, for a fund for what you may need from hence, for ’tis from hence we must be supported. God himself direct, counsell, and prosper you in all your undertakeings, and send us a good acct: of you, and a blythe meet- ing, is y® earnest prayer of your, &ce. Sie subr- SAMUELL VEITCH. Write to me of all att home by the first. LETTER—JOHN BoRLAND, JOHN CAMPBELL, and JOHN MAXWELL, to Hueu FRaAsER.* Mr. Huan FraseR—S*®- Boston, N.E., Septem”: 23, 1699. Having by this conveyance acquainted yourself and other friends with what we culd learn of the state of Caledonia in our particular letters shold * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 158 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. not now again trouble you, but that every week’s news increasing our just grief, we are now, as in a corner, mett together to vent our passion, and to whom may wee more freely then yourself? for not to be affected with such a National concern wold argue us brutishly stupid, especially considering it was a design soe well laid, and so hopefully, not only begun, but carryed on, till it begun to be the envy of others. That now it shold be neither carelessly nor cowardly, but thus wickedly cast ‘away and lost by a viperous brood that neither feare God nor regard man. Quis talia fando temperet a lachrymis? That there were better, nay good men among them, wee are not soe void of charity as to doubt, besides our much respected Mr. Mackay ; but so few, wee question if his single absence did not’oppen the gap for the united tribes of Jacobites, Papists, and atheists to run the interest of the whole, with these poor men under their power, into this ruine ; for what better can any think- ing man (that heares what wee now understand) conclude, in any reason, to have been expected from the management of such who hate God themselves, his image, and all virtue in others ; among whom was noe room for God’s worship, nor time for his service, evin in his own day, wher, if any durst peep to complain therof, were hiss’d at, as insolent turbulent Whiggs, &c.; and as for morality, was there ever less of that, or the like truculent treachery, among men thus betrusted and honoured, then appear’d in their actions, and was the result of their design, as appear’d in words by one of the chief in their Council, (or rather wicked cabal,) who, in his speech, propos’d to them to carry the ComPY: ship and goods,—nay, and was it not said eyin the poor men, too,—into some foreign port, to make sale of all, that soe they might divide thé spoyle 4 What will the world say but that of the rest of his nation and Capt. Kidd, never a barrell the better herrings ; and when in his great mercy God had prevented that motion, and now they are coming to this coast. Was there ever more horrid barbarity than in the passage they exer- cised toward theyr poor men, who noe sooner fell sick but were turn’d out upon deck, there expos’d to most violent rains ; and tho’ the most of their provisions consisted in flower, yet they, whose distemper was the flux, must have nothing but a little sower oatmeal and a little water, nor their share of that neither : when they complain, to condole or comfort them—sweet Christian-like conso- lation! “ Dogs! its too good for you.” Theyr visits from Officers and Chirur- geons wer, in -the morning, questioning, how many ar to be thrown over board ? Answer, 4 or perhaps 5. “ Why, (reply they,) what! noe more ?” SF: 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 159 wee shall make none ourselves, but tell you wee heare the comentary is made by others is, what are those their principles and the practises of From such, Good Lord, deliver us! Wee had thought to have proceeded ; but who is able to relate or hear how nauseous we are made to the people of Jamaica and in New York, wher the 2 ships now are; shall therfor leave them, musing what may be the issue. To think they will now, or ever design’d to cary the ships home, believe their pretences who will, we cannot ; that they will, as (wee and all freinds have often pray’d them,) return again, cannot be hop’d ; that they are in woefull confusion, we conclude by reason of the news they heare of sundry of our ships being gone, and possibly arriv’d in time to keep possession; also, that the English are now engadg’d in the designe. They write, the seamen ran away as fast as they can ; and will they not rather lose their wages, or any thing rather than their sweet lives, and goe any wher to live among men, then again fall under the tender mercys of Capt. Drummond, &c.? Why, they may fall sick : then, as useless dogs, they know what to expect. Meantime, the grief has broke Mr. Paterson’s heart and brain, and now hee’s a child ; they may doe what they will for him. However, they have sent back a sloop with some little provisions and armes, in which went Counsellour Drummond to tell the news, and soe we must leave the rest for time to discover, concluding wee see what sort of Counsellours sea com- manders will make when advanced into the room of good men, and what the want of such will doe, how uncomfortably they must neids live themselves, where they can neither promote the glory of their Maker nor the work of their generation. We pray God, may it please him to revive this languishing design, that wee may not allwayes be the scorn of the proud, who are at ease to consell our Counsellours, and teach our Senators wisdom, and is, with the tender of hearty respects to yourself and all faithfull friends, from, Sr. Your’s and our Countrey’s friends and servants, JOHN BoRuAND. JNO. CAMBELL. JNo. MAXWELL. 160 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. LeTtER—HEnreEyY Parton to the Directors.* , May IT PLEASE YouR Hon?s- I think it my duty to give your Hon™: a perfect and particular account of your Affaires in these parts. On the twenty third of June last all the ships and Companyes in your Hon: service broke up from the Colony, each ship haveing two months provisions on board ; at which time I had a coMission from the Council to goe Master of a Prize Sloop from Caledonia to Jamaica, where I was no sooner arrivd but found my design frustrated by a proclam- ation which been issued out by the Government there, prohibiting all persons to trade or correspond with any of us at their peril ; so that I was oblig’d to return to the Colony, where I was inform’d by y® Unicorne that the Colony was quite deserted ; whereupon I kept in Company with her five dayes, till I mett the St. Andrew, Capt. Pennycook Commander, who ordered me to attend him, which I did for severall dayes. But y® Unicorn haveing lost her Foremast, foretop mast, and maintop mast, he ordered me to attend the Uni- corn, which I did till five saile came up with her, which I took to be Spaniards, and being driven from her by strese of weather, and wanting provisions, I was forced to leave her, and put into Jamaica to recruit ; but, on the north side of that place, my Sloop was seized, by order from a Justice of the Peace, and condemn’d as. prize, after which I design’d to goe home ; but hearing that the St. Andrew was in great distrese, and Capt. Pennycook dead, I thought myself oblig’d, as being yor: Honts- Sert-» to use my utmost endeavour to bring her from Blewfields (where she then lay) to Port Royall, which, at the request of Captain M‘Lean, I did according, or otherwise she would probably have been lost. All which I have done, and have also taken the charge as com- mander of her, purely for your Hon" service and the honour of my Countrey, though it has been a great hindrance to me, who would otherwise have gone home. The Olive Branch was unfortunately blown up at Caledonia. Capt. Deell, Capt. Ramsay, and a great many other Gentlemen are dead. I have lately had an account of the safe arrivall of the Unicorn and Caledonia at New York. I have taken an Inventory of all the St. Andrew’s stores, and * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 161 have delivered one copy to Capt. M‘Lean, and another to Barnabae Jenkine, Hsq., appointed by the Governor here to receive the same. But the majore parte of her stores were here disposed of by Capt. M‘Lean to pay her debts and charges. Of all which Capt. M‘Lean hath a full and just accot- So that I now desire that your Hons will be pleased to send me your orders, with instructions what to do with her. And if your Honors shall think fitt to order her home, that you will also send powder and stores sufficient for such a voyage, they being all disposed of for the reasons above. So with all due respects, I rest, Your Hones. Most devoted humble Servt- Port Royali, Nov" 1699. HENREY Parton. XIX.—LETTERS AND DISPATCHES BY THE COURT OF DIRECTORS ON HEARING OF THE DESERTION OF THE COLONY. The Directors to the Councit of the Cotony.* Ricgut HonoRABLE, Edinburgh, the 20th of September 1699. Our last was of the 29th ultimo, by the Rising Sun, and a copy thereof by the Hope, to which referrs. Since, we have none from you; and this serves only to advise that we have laid your address before the Council-General, who forwarded the same to his Majesty by the Secretaries of State, both of them being then here. Mr. Montgomery and Capt. Jolly are arriv’d here, but have not as yet had time to examin what relates to them so particularly as that we can write any thing material upon that head, but referrs you LETTER FROM THE CoUNCIL TO THE DiREcTORS. On board y¢ Riseng Sun, off y* Island Monseratt, 9 Novem": 1699. RicHt HONOURABLE, Wee wrote you on 24th Septem’, which day wee sailled from the Bay of Rothsay, in the Island of Boote, and since then our passage has been very * A full account of this expedition will be found in the “ Memoirs of Darien, giving a short description of that country, with an account of the attempts of the Company of Scotland to settle a colonie in that place,” by the Rev. John Borland, who accompanied the expedi- tion. In this reverend gentleman’s curious diary, in the possession of Mr, Laing, who has kindly allowed the editor to consult it, there is this more succinct account :—“ September 24th, the Lord’s day, we set sail, being 4 ships in company, from Rothsay in the Isle of 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 199 favourable, both wind and weather concurring, and y® recovery of our sick men animating us beyond expression. Wee have no occasion of delaying the prosecuting our voyage, and therefor wee have sent one of our number, James Byres, ashore, for finding a convenient conveyance of this our letter, under cover to Mr. James Fowlis of London. Our dead and sick men are very farr short of what may be thought agreeable to so long a voyage. We shall send a particular account of them from New Hdinburgh, when it pleases God wee arrive there in safety. If ought worth adviseing occurr to Mr. Byres on y® Island, he will add a postscript. Meantime, commending all y¢ affairs of the Company and your H°- to the care and protection of Almighty God, We are, wt all due respect, Signed by ye Four Councellors.* . Plymouth, in Monserat, 10% Novr. 1699. Rigut HonovuRABLE, Referring to what is on the other side, this shall only advise yt yesternight late I came here in our long boat, and this morning, together wt some Gen- tlemen who came ashore with me, waited upon y® Governour, from whom, for triall’s sake, I asked liberty of takeing wood and water aboord, and he told me, after peruseing his orders from the goverment of England, in presence of us all, that he could not allow us either wood, water, or oJ conveniences, but that it behooved us to goe as we came. So ‘tis good for us we need nothing to carry us on our way. The ill-grounded reports of our Colony’s haveing deserted their settlement meerly for want of provisions, are very thick here, and reported in as many different shapes as there are people to report—not so much as any two agreeing on y*® time or oy* circumstances, and not one giveing a consistent account of his author, some saying they had the news from N. England, oy*s from Petit. Guavis, in Hispaniola, whether (they say) Boot, and steered along through St. George’s Channel. Had a favourable passage as to winds and weather, but much sickness among our people. Our ship was the healthiest of them all. The Sun upheld and preserved us in comfortable health at sea. November 9, Thursday, we discovered the island of Antigo, Montserat, Redendo, and Nevis, and on No- vember 30th, Thursday, we arrived safely in the harbour of Caledonia.” * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. 200 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. all y¢ Colony have gone for releife. However, all agree in this, that there’s no prejudice done the Colony by foureigne force ; but that, on the conterary, in tuo severall engadgements, our Colony, acting defensively, did defeat the Spaniards. For my oune pairt, I have not the least apprehension that what is talk’d to our Colony’s prejudice is true; the reason of desertion assigned being false, and their sheltring place so ill chosen ; but, be as it will, wee shall see ere we believe, and either knitt on the old thrum, or begin a new web ; and I’me perswaded all on board will doe their utmost endeavour to maintain the honour of our nation and interest of the Company ; wherein none shall more readily concurr then R. H., your, &e., Sic subtur, James ByREs. Minutes of Megtines of the CounciL,* on board the Ristne Sux, in } CALEDONIA Bay, Monday, 4th December 1699. At a meeting of the Council, Land and Sea Captains, Capt. James Gibsone, Preeses, the state of provisions on board y® fleet being enquired into, accord- ing to the severall invoyces, the same were found suffict: to subsist, att short allowance, all the men aboard the fleet for the space of 6 moneths, save only as to the brandy, which, att the rate of one gallon to three men, were only found suffict for 4 moneths ; and all this depends upon the provisions answer- ing the invoyce and ships stewarts accounts, and our purchasing the cargoe of ane English sloop presently in this bay, and receiving from Capt. Thomas Drummond what he has aboard his sloop wherein he came from New York, both these sloops cargoes being included in the above six moneths sub- sistence. Thereafter, some debate ariseing from the consideration of ye insufficiency and short coming of the provisions loaded for the first expedition, whether or not without rumageing the ships, there could be any satisfaction given of the present provisions answering y* invoyces, it was thought reason- able to call Alext' Hamilton, whom ye Colony sent to Scotland, to see their provision and other goods fairly loaded, who compearing, declared that he * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 201 . saw none of the provision which came from Ireland, but the most pairt of the bread and flour bought in Scotland; and the reason why he saw not all the provi- sions was, because he was obleidged to attend the Court of Directors. Captain Thomas Drummond, one of the Councellors assumed by the Colony being pre- sent att this meeting, was interrogate anent what credentialls he brought from y® oyt Councellors att New York, and produced letters sealled with the Colony’s seall, and signed by tuo of the assumed Councellors, William Patersone and Captain Samuell Veitch, whereby all concerned are ordered to give the said Captain Drummond full credit ; likewayes Captain William Veitch, who att the beginning was chosen a Councellor for the Colony, and came aboard this ship, produced a letter from the said Captain Samuell Veitch, dated at New York, 20th Septem? last, which letter, w* the above credentialls, were pro- duced, to be copied and lye in retentis. And there being a paragraph in the forsaid letter in these words—“ If you resettle the place, faill not to send by the first a bill of att least tuo thousand pounds, drawne in Thomas Winham and Stephen Delany’s name, and addressed to me, for a fund for what you may need from hence, for it is from hence yow must be supported.” And ye said Capt. Drummond, in virtue of his credentialls, assureing this meet- ing, that bills drawne in the termes of the Act of the Court of Directors, for a credit to the Colony, would be sufficient for procureing provisions att New York ; and it being alledged, on the other side, that there were not four Councellors here for drawing bills, and that albeit there were (the haill Colony haveing deserted their settlement), the same would find no credit in any place of the world. The vote was stated, whether this meeting judged ye credit above proposed valid and effectual or not, and was carryed in the negative. There being a motion made, whether or not the said Capt. Thomas Drum- mond should be admitted to sitt and vote in this meeting, yea or not, it was earryed by vote in the affirmative: Capt. Veitch refuseing to vote in this matter, desired the same might be minuted, which was unanimously granted. The said Capt. Veitch also proposed, that James Byres, one of the Councel- lors of the Company, Capt. Thomas Drummond, and himselfe, should, as Councellors, take upon themselves the full goverment. To which the said James Byres answered, that the Colony for which the saids Drummond and 2 . 202 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. Veitch were chosen Councellors haveing entirely deserted the settlement, he was of opinion, thatnone of their commissions as Councellors did subsist, or was valid, and consequently, that y' was no Councellor here but himself, seing his commission depended not either upon the desertion or settlement of the Colony ; and yrfor, the charge being too great, he refused (albeit they were consenting, as they are not) to accept of sole Councellorship, and much more to act in commission with them ; he reckoned no Councellors, and so adhered to the commission granted by the Court of Directors in favours of Capt. Wm. Veitch, Capt. James Gibsone, Major John Lindsay, and himselfe, in respect the same was never to be void and null otherwayes then in favours of the Councill of Caledonia, which was not found extant: and in this ad- herence to the forsaid commission, he, “ye said James Byres, was join’d by Captain Gibsone and Major Lindsay. It being proposed that a new settlement should be made here, and atl to the vote, the same was carryed nemine contradicente. j Thereafter, it being voted, how many should settle here in all, both of land and sea men, it was carryed that five hundred should settle ; and then the Preses ordered all present to signe these minutes, with himself; and ad- journed this meeting till to-morrow, att eight o’clock in the morning, when all present are desired to be here in this ship. Signed by y® Preses, Coun- cil, Land and Sea Captains. Tuesday, 5th Decem™. 1699, on board y¢ Riseing Sun, in Caledonia Bay, att 8 o’cloack in the morning. Att a meeting of the Councill, Land and Sea Captains, and Representatives of Companys, Captain James Gibsone, Preses, minutes of y¢ last sederunt read ; the question being putt, to what place the men aboard this fleet, super- numerary to the number of five hundred who are to settle, should be carryd, it was voted, that they should be sent to Jamaica p. first on board the two hired ships, with provisions for three weeks. Thereafter, it was putt to the vote, whether the land men who are to settle should have or’e them six captains, six livetenants and six ensigns, or eight of each ? and it was carryed eight ; and then y® Preses recommended 1699. | THE DARIEN PAPERS. 203 to all the members of this meeting to have their serious thoughts concerning the men fittest for staying here and goeing to Jamaica, till three o’cloack this afternoon ; to which time this meeting is adjourned. (Sie subs’: ) JAMES GIBSONE, Preses. Capt. JA. GIBSONE, Preeses, as above. Ditto, three o’cloack in the afternoon. Minutes of the last sederunt read ; there being a motion made anent ye nomination of the officers to be sent to Jamaica, and this meeting not agree- ing yranent, it was voted, whether or not the said nomination should be by this meeting or y@ Council, and carryed to be by the Council, consisting of four, viz, James Byres, Capt. William Veitch, Capt. James Gibsone, and Maj. John Lindsay. Signed by the Preses. Aboard 4° Anna of Caledonia, 15th Decemr- 1699. To THE Rieut Hon THE CounciLt oF CALEDONIA. Wheras I am sensible that one half of the men that is come from Scotland is to be sent to Jamaica, I y"for desire that you would allow ane hundred and fifty that would be willing to take y™ fate with me, you allowing them three weeks provision, which was condescended on to cary them off; likeways allowing arms and ammunition ; and they shall not be burdensome to the Colony till it is in a condition to maintain them. The reason of my pressing this now is, that 'me invited by severall captains of ye Indians that will raise their men, and undertake that which may be advantageous not only to the partie, but for the releife of what prisoners the Spaniards have of ours ; and if yow will grant my desire, you would condescend on it speedily, and give orders for y® reviewing of what was brought in y® sloop ; and in so doeing youll obleidge, R. H., Your most humble Servant, (Sic subr-) | Tuomas DrumMonp. 204 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699 On board the Riseing Sun, in Caledona Bay, 18th Decemr: 1699. The Councill (Capt. William Veitch, Prases) doe accuse and lybell Alext Campbell, in Capt. Campbell’s Company, in maner following, viz., that, con- terary to all the laws, divine and humane, knowne and observed among any civilized people, the said Alext Campbell hath frequently exprest his dissa- tisfaction with the allowance dayly given out, by order of a generall meeting, for subsisting the Colony, albeit yt be not the least distinction made twixt officers and planters, and yt he himselfe did not alledge y® stopeing of his oune victualls. Likeas, the said Alext Campbell (by whose instigation y® Councill doeth not yet know), upon the 15 and 16th days of this current Decem®, did openly ayow to seal! persons his dissatisfaction with y* Councel- lors proceedings, in so far as they had not given such speedy answers to some of Capt. Drummonds propositions as was expected ; and therfor y* he him- self, a great many officers, volunteers, planters, and seamen, had a designe and well laid contriveance for seizing the persons of y® Councillors, and hanging them altogether, in caice they would not divest themselves of y* government in favours of y® conspirators; and that the saids conspirators were to take possession of y° Company’s tuo proper ships, the Riseing Sun and Hope, in the former of which they were assured there was 27,000 merks of ye Company’s money, and that in one of y* two hired ships there was 10,000 merks, and they were sure to gett y* hired ships without any difficulty ; which mutinous association, and villanous designe of murther, being both crimes meritorious of death, for the terrour of others in time comeing who may have any such devilish designes, and for y* peace and well- fare of the Colony, unanimity in just and honest undertakeings being our strongest bullwark ; the Councill doe seriously recommend to the Hone Gen- tlemen of the Council of Warr, to whom the tryall of this matter is commit- ted, to have God and a good conscience before their eyes, and to proceed in administrating justice without fear or pity ; and this shall be sufficient war- rant. On board y¢ Riseing Sun, in Caledonia Bay, 18th Decem"- 1699. Att a Councill of Warr, conveened by order of y® Councill, present, Major John Ramsay, Preses, Capt. Rot Hay, Capt. Alext- Montgomerie, Capt. Francis Balfour, Capt. Thomas M¢Kintosh, Capt. John Baillie, Capt. James 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 205 Urquhart, Lwt- Charles Stewart, Lwt- Thomas Nysbet, Lwt- Sam!l- Johnston, Ensigne James Boyde, Ensigne Thomas Arthur, Ensigne David Lundie ; the pannall, Alext- Campbell, being called, confessed that he had made a com-. plaint to seall of his comerades anent y allowance, but did not think it was the Councill’s fault that the same was detained. Confesses likewayes as to the 24¢ Article, that he had heard from sell persons, particularly Serjeant Campbell, Capt. Drummond’s serjeant, and Lwt- John Campbell, in Capt. Process against Campbell’s company, of a designe of sending 500 of the best of the men of 4. Campbell. Jamaica to be sold, and of a letter written by Captain Drummond to the Councill on board the Riseing Sun, desireing 150 of y® forst men under his command, and that he would procure them gear and mantenance, and they should returne to the Colony’s service when the Councill required them, and that that was better than to be sold ; att which the said pannall was very much cast doune, and expressed himself to a serjeant, but knew not in whose com- pany he was, as also to some other souldiers ; but denys his haveing said any thing of his dislike of the Councellors government, or of any designe of seizing their persons. He further confessed, that he heard there was twentie sex thousand merks aboard this ship, besides bills of credit, which he thought might have mantained them here, if the Councill took care of getting provi- sions. Denyes all oyt Articles. The said pannall haveing called Capt. Bal- four and Capt. Bailzie aside, confessed to them that, on Saturday, when he was at dinner, Ensigne Spark, in Capt. Kinaird’s company, came to him, upon which he rose, and haveing walked with him, the said Ensigne Spark told him that Capt. Drummond had petitioned the Councill for some of the men who were ordered to Jamaica under his command, on some expedition, and that he the said Spark, if he were ordered to Jamaica, he would be one of ye number that were to goe with Captain Drummond. William McLeod, one of the wit- nesses, being sworne, and purged of partiall counsell—Depones, That on Saturday the 16th of this current moneth, he went ashoar, and there mett with Serjeant Logan, who declared as follows: That there was one, whose name he knew not, was a great seducer of y® Colony, and hade seal! times spoke to him to that purpose ; upon whose relation, the deponent went and spoke to him himself, his name being Alext- Campbell, now pannall before this Court, who, with other discowrses, said, that the Councellors had wholly Depositions of Witnesses. 206 : THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. disheartned the Colony, by deminishing their victualls, to enrich their oune peckets ; and now, said he, wee have written a proposition to y® Councillors, -which, if refused, wee intend to make it good p. force. Then the deponent asked him, by what means? He said, by seizing the Councellors all four att once ; and if they’d not grant y™ request, they'd hang them. The deponent said, they behooved to have men both of conduct and courage to manage such ane enterprise ; whereupon he answered, there should be no want of that. The deponent desired their names. He said, y™ was one Ensigne Spark had spoke to him this same day ytanent, and sea! others. Then y® deponent demanded of him what rules they had laid doune for prosecuteing of that designe. He, the said pannall, answered, yt that they had not fully con- cluded yron till Munday, when they were to hold a meeting. The deponent desireing off him he might be acquainted of what they did in their meeting, was answered, that if he was ashoar he should be a sharer, and should have his vote as well as others. The deponent said to the said pannall, that the Com- pany’s ship, the Hope, would be a fitt instrument for’ y™ designe ; who an- swered him, “not without her mother,” pointing to the Riseing Sun. The de- ponent said, that it was simply impossible to attempt any such thing, the ship being so well provided with men and armes. He said, that was the easiest thing of nature; for, if once the old fox, meaning Capt. Gibsone, were hanged, they’d meet with no resistance. He further told y® deponent, that Lwt Walter Grahame hade told them ashoar, the oy™ day, that y™ was 27,000 mks. aboard y® Riseing Sun, and ten aboard the Daling, and that we might live happy enough in the enjoyment of these things. The deponent further declares, that William Robertsone, serjeant in Capt. Grant’s company, told him 2 days agone, that he could discover something, but was under ane oath of secrecy. Ye deponent said, that ane unlawfull oath might lawfullie be broken. He said, if it was not found out oy'wayes, he should in time dis- cover it. And this is the truth, as he shall answer to God. Signed by Wituiam M¢Leop. Andrew Logan, Serjeant, aged 31 years, being sworne and purged of partiall Counsell—Depones, That upon Thursday last, being ashoar with Peter M‘Ferran, Planter, in Capt. Ferquhar’s Company, who told him that 1699. f THE DARIEN PAPERS. 207 the said Alext- Campbell, now Pannall before this Court, hade spoken to severall persones for raiseing a mutiny, upon the which day the said Pannall desired the deponent to speak to his comerades in the Duke of Hamiltone to joine in this matter, and told him that the money in this ship and the Daling would doe a great many of the Conspirators good, who were to take this ship and the litle Hope and sell them in some place, and take the money and live thereon either in England or Ireland. The deponent further declares, that upon Saturday last the said Pannall told him they would take the Coun- cellors when ashoar and threatne to hang them, if they would not permitt a boat full of the Conspirators to goe on board and command this ship. The deponent sayes further, that the Pannall told him the Councellors took no right method for the Colony’s thriveing, for they would not give ear to Capt. Drummond’s proposition; and that he heard him say to the above W™. M‘Leod, upon his asking him what heads they hade for such ane undertakeing, that Ensigne Spark was a very honest Gentleman, and had spoke to him this day, and he would sound him further. And this is the truth, &c. (Signed by) AnprEW Locay. Peter M‘Ferran, Planter in Capt. Ferquhar’s Company, aged 23 years, being sworne and purged of partiall Counsell—Depones, That, to the best of his knowledge, upon Wednesday last being att work ashoar, the said Pannall asked the Deponent “ what! are you consulting upon how wee shall gett out of this place?” The deponent answered, that he knew not how to gett out of this place, but if the Countrey were planted, and victualls in it, wee might live well enough here. The said Pannal said, he would contrive how to gett out of this place if wee would be true to him. Then the deponent asked him concerning his contriveance. He answered that he would have some of his Companions sent to this ship and the Company’s ship the Hope ; and that he had already sounded severall on board this ship who were of his opinion ; and would give a signall here by a man’s holding a flagg in his hands when they were to fall on; and that he would take away the best of the goods, and send the men who were not for his purpose ashoar att the first port ; and that there was so much aboard this ship, and 10,000 mks. aboard the Daling ; wherby, and by selling the ships and goods, the Conspirators might live 208 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. happily any where. And att another time the said Pannall spoke to the same purpose to the Deponent and Serjeant Logan. And this is the truth, &e. (Signed by) Pat. M‘Ferran. William Robertson, Serjeant’ in Capt. Grant’s Company, aged 24 years, being sworne and purged of malice and partiall Counsell—Depones, That upon Wednesday last, to the best of his knowledge, the said Pannall asked him what he thought of this life. The deponent answered that he thought it a very sober life. Then the Pannall told him he would propose something to him, if he would promise not to reveal it again, upon which he rashly swore that he would not. Whereupon he proposed to secure the Councellors and the Officers, this ship, with all the money and effects on board her, the Company’s ship the Hope, and then they could easily secure the Flyboats. Desyred ye deponent to bespeak his comrads to be assisting in the said pro- ject ; and upon y® deponent’s asking what they should doe with the seamen, he desired him to bespeak those of this ship, and for the two hired ships he doubted not to command them ; and to this purpose he importuned him severall times, which he denying, the said Pannall desired him to keep it secret, and he would prosecute his designes himselfe: And further depones, that on Saturday, 16th current, being in discourse with y® said Pannall, he told him and Duncan Drummond in Capt. Campbell’s Company, that Ensigne Spark told him of a Petition of Capt. Drummond’s to the Councill for 150 men, which petition if it failled they were to prosecute y™ designes as is above narrated: And this is the truth, &c. , : (Signed by) W™. RoBERTsoy. — SENTENCE OF DEATH AGAINST ALEX®: CAMPBELL. Upon the reading the depositions, the question being putt, guilty or not guilty, carried, nemine contradicente, guilty ; and, according to the Articles of Warr, condemned him to be hanged, and the day of his execution referred to the Councell. (Sic subtr-) Jo. Ramsay, Preses. 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 209 The said day, the Councell, conforme to the above reference, appoint Wednesday, the twentieth day of this curt- moneth, to be the day of the execution of the above sentence, att two a’cloack in y® afternoon, within Fort St. Andrew. (Stgned by) JAMES ByRES. Wiuuiam VEITCH. JAMES GIBSONE. JOHN LINDSAY. BILL oF FARE CONDESCENDED ON ATT YE GENERALI MEETING. One-half pound of bread, one-half pound of beef, and on fish dayes 4 lib. of stock-fish with 4 of a gill of brandy to each man p. diem, and a chopine of peese to every six dayly. LETTER FROM THE CoUNCIL TO THE DIRECTORS.* On board the Riseing Sun, in Caledonia Bay, 23d December, 1699. Ricut HonovuraBLe, Our last to you of the 9th ult®, off Monseratt, and James Byres, with whom we sent the letter ashoar, wrote yow concerning the reports current in that Island,—a Copy of both which letters is here inclosed. On the 30th ult°, all our four ships gott in safely to this Bay, where wee were heartily sory to find the bad news James Byres gott at Monseratt con- firmed, though, as he observed, the cause of desertion be really false, and the sheltring place different from what they said, as you'll perceive by the subse- quent pairt of this letter. On our arriveall, wee found all the hutts within Fort St. Andrew (and without it y™ were never any built) burn’d down to the ground, and the prin- cipall batteries of the Fort which guarded the enterance of the Bay quite demolished ; and whereas there were full accounts given of ye Colony’s haveing cutt all the wood on the neck of the Isthmus, wee found no such thing, but on the conterary, on the side within the Bay, imperviable mongraves and * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 2D 210 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. mossy ground ; and on the side without the Bay for the most pairt inacces- sible rocks ; and the middle way mountainous and full of trees, wherof there are not six cutt. Wee found Captain Thomas Drummond here, who told us that eight dayes ere we arrived, he was here ina sloop from New York with goods and instruments, conforme to the inclosed account, for resettleing the Colony with us. He said all the first Colony were honest men, and never left the settle- ment till they wanted provision to that degree that good Gentlemen among them sold the shirts of their backs for plantains, &c. ; and yet litle or nothing of the tradeing stock sent by the Company was disposed of ; that he him- self was the only man in the Council had health for overseeing the loadeing of the ships when the Colony deserted, as said is; and yet he neither knows what number of men were shipped off, nor what goods he himself caused loade aboarde, only he is sure all was equally divided among the three bigg ships, the Caledonia, Unicorne, and Saint Andrew. He further adds, that the saids three ships, together with the Endeavour, Pink, sett saill from this 20 June last ; but how these ships were navigat should be a great mysterie, were all true, he sayes; for he tells us that their men died and were sick to that height that the liveing were not able to bury the dead ; and that they had” not six men for guard and sentries ; that all manner of distempers, such as head and belly-aches, fevers, fluxes, &c., raged among their men; but all this notwithstanding, the place was very wholesome. That all the four ships were bound for New York ; but the Endeavour, Pink, proveing lake att sea, sunk, after unloading the men and provisions on boarde; and the St. Andrew went for Jamaica, under the command of Captain Pennicook, who being deade, Captain Coline Campbell, ane assumed Councellor, has the full management there. And at New York, Captain Samuel Veitch, W™- Pater- sone, and the said Captain Drummond himself, hade the full management of all on boarde the Caledonia and Unicorne. He, the said Captain Drummond, gave us full assurance that provisions could be hade in as much abundance as wee pleased from New York; and the fund of credit he proposed was his word of honour, together with a paper called Credentialls, by Captain Samuel Veitch and William Patersone in his favours, wherof, and of a letter written by Captain Samuell Veitch to Captain W™- Veitch, his brother, yow have the inclosed copies. Drummond further told us, that he now reckon’d 1699. THE DARIEN: PAPERS. 211 all things very right ; the Colony resettled; and that we could take Porto- bell if we pleased. For the first six dayes, he said he had no letters at all for the Council, nor papers concerning y® Colony ; that afterwards produced a confused heap of the Council and Parliament’s minuts, wherby we understood the want of provisions to be a made story, and that it was very probable both Jolly and Montgomerie knew, and discovered not the base designe of carrying away the St. Andrew ; albeit, Captain Drummond said, there was never the least misunderstanding among the Councillors. A few dayes after wee gott these minuts, wee understood by the Mr. of ane English Sloop that Captain Drummond gott letters for the Council att the Island St. Thomas, which, when questioned on, he confessed, and produces M‘Kye’s letters from Boston, dated 3d July, which in reasone could not be thought to come sooner here y® the middle or end of August, and yet ther is not the least suspicion of the want or scarcity of provision or extraordinary mortality so much as suggested ; besides wee have seen M‘Kye’s letters from Edinburgh, after he hade dis- coursed with your Hs-, and understood the recruit and provisions on boarde this fleet, which he does not complain of as unsuitable ; albeit, according to Captain Drummond, every thing sent was useless, and all things needfull ommitted. Now, to give yow our own thoughts of this account wee have from Capt. Drummond, there is good ground to think that the generality of those con- cerned in y°® Colony’s affairs have been engadged in a bad designe, which, to the disgrace of our Nation and reproach of humanity, they have gott too far effectuate. The account given is so inconsistent with itselfe, and, separately taken, with right reason and common sense, that no body, except fools or interested knaves, can believe one word of it ; and we are afrayed litle or nothing be ever gott of the Company’s effects in those men’s gar though none of our endeavours shall be wanting. On the 4th and 5th current, wee called generall meetings of all our Land and Sea Captains, and other representatives of the Companys who wanted Captains, and what passed at these meetings will be best understood by your Hs: when you peruse and consider the inclosed minuts, exactly copied of the originalls ; only we must tell you, that albeit by the vidimus of provi- sions then made up att random, there seemed to be a sufficient stock (att the rate then condescended on, and since past into a bill of fare) for six months’ 212 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. meat and four moneths’ brandy; yet wee have just reasone to fear that neither shall much exceed the one-half of what they were reckoned ; beside there is an absolute necessity that the dayly allowance be augmented. Wee have, ever since the holding of these two generall meetings, been use- ing our best endeavours to effectuate what was resolved on by clearing the ground within the Fort, and cutting wood for building hutts, that when the men and provisions are gott ashoar, the two fly-boats may be putt in condition to prosecute their voyage to Jamaica with all the men supernumerary to 500 ; but in this the malice and designes of some people here have proven great hindrances. A great many of the members of the generall meeting were of opinion that Captain Veitch’s letter and Drummond's word of honour were sufficient funds of credit wheron there might be provisions gott for subsisting all our men, though there be not the least credit given by the correspondents they mention. However, the proposeall was too bare-faced a designe of obleidgeing us to trace (through necessity) the footsteps marked out by our predecessors without any necessity, and therefor was rejected. Capt. Drum- mond did, on the 15th current, send us by Robert Turnbull, his Livtt, a letter, wherof the copy is inclosed. Wee desired to be satisfied anent his designes with the men he craved, but for that he beggs pardon ; and when we asked what security he would give for the armes, ammunition, provisions, &e., and that they should not be burdensome to the Colony, he told that was a ques- tioning his word as wee did att the beginning ; so wee indeed delayed the giveing any answer to his proposealls. Meantime the reasonableness therot was industriously urged among the Officers and Planters—so farr, that they begann to talk of using violence to gett their designe effectuate ; and our Company’s trustie freind, Alext- Hamilton, carried a copy of the proposeall written with his owne hand still about him. Wee thought it high time to enquire into the originall of this affair, being informed of a villanous plott for seizing the ships and murdering ourselves ; and to that purpose haveing taken into custody Alext- Campbell, in Capt. Campbell’s Company, who was delated by ane honest gentleman whom he was endeavouring to seduce, wee made a libell against him, and called a Counsell of warr on him, by whom he was found guilty, and condemned to be hanged; and the sentence was accord- ingly executed. The copies of y® libell, process, and sentence are inclosed. Wee allwayes fancyed the rascall expected relief to the last minute, when 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 213 he said, Lord forgive them who brought me on this lock, and so, without help, jumped off. Wee have lame and partiall proofs against severall others, but not so legall as they should be : so we must have patience. Capt. Thomas Kerr'and Drummond are in custody, together with Ensigne Spark and Livtt Logan. What the event shall be wee know not. Wee observe that, albeit Captain Drummond and his associats att the generall meeting press‘d the bill of fare now ordered, conforme to the copy thereof on the end of Drummond’s proposal, yet all wee have yet discovered as concerned any wayes in the conspiracy, found a great dale of the displeasure, they observe, among the Planters (for they themselves are innocent, if we'll believe them,) upon ye shortness of the allowance. They also endeavour to propagate a story of our designe of saveing the victualls for private advantage, and selling the men to be sent to Jamaica. We have bought the English Sloop and cargoe, and given bills for the value, being £990, 9s. curt. money of New England, viz. 6} p. ps. S on Messrs. John Borlane and John Maxwell of Boston. Our bills are payable ¢ to William Fulton, and 4+ to John Porterfeild ; and at the same time for these Genile- men’s reimbursement, wee have drawne on Andrew Cockburne, your Cashier, payle att + in London, att the house of Mr. James Fowlis, att the current exchange. So wee are perswaded you'll honour our draught, seing, you'll no doubt be convinced, that at least our meaning is good, and our intentions honest, which, in the sight of God, wee can averr to be no oy than that the Settlement should be keep’d here till your Hs notifie unto us your pleasure ; and whatever orders wee gett shall be sacredly observed. Wee question not but some vessel or other is on her way here from yow, with orders to enquire after ye Company’s effects, and learn the originall of the mischeiff ; but if in this wee be mistaken, till necessity force our abandoning the Settlemt, wee shall, God willing, keep possession, though our discouragements be great. In respect wee are informed that the Ouners of the Sloop and Cargoe hade some conferences att N. York with the Councellors of the Colony, and that wee suspect underhand dealing, wee have advised the saids Borlane and Maxwell, ere they accept, to enquire as much as possible into the matter, that in caice any previous security be given, the havers of the bills may take themselves thereto ; and in caice that be not gott so understood as to stope the accept- ance of our bills, wee have sent the acceptants first and second bills on Captain 214 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. Samuel Veitch and William Patersone, or any others intrometters with the Colony’s effects, together with a letter of advice open, under cover to them, wherein (according to Captain Veitch’s desire to his broyt for sending of bills for £2000, though wee do not understand what is therby meant,) weé have desired them to pay our saids bills for Messrs. Borelane and Maxwell yt reimbursement of the £990, 9s. drawne on them ; and to send us provisions and working tools to as great value as they can p. first, with a full account of their intromissions and depursements ; and wee have advised Messrs. Borelane and Maxwell (in caice they may be reimbursed by our bills on Veitch and Patersone as above) to returne us our draughts on your Cashier, and advise you p. first that they are not to be used by them. Wee have also given Commission to the saids Borelane and Maxwell to look after the concerns of the Colony and the Company’s effects ; and take the intrometters whomso- ever bound with sufficient cautioners to hold just count and reckoning to your HS. or whom you shall appoint to call them to account, or els to gett them imprisoned ; which is all wee can doe at such distance. Wee are in hopes of getting occasion to Jamaica in a few dayes by a small English sloop presently in this Bay, by which wee intend to send William Gellie and Andrew Cald- walls, that they may dispatch our letters to a friend at London, and enquire anent the effects aboard the St. Andrew and Stark’s ship, and what became of the men ; as also to be learning the properest and most frugall way of dis- poseing on those wee mind to send thither, so as they may if possible be at a call for y° Colony’s service, when they shall be in a condition to subsist them. Wee have recommended them to Dr. John Blair at Port Royall, who, as wee hear, is a freind to our Company, and with whome the Colony had dealing formerly. Wee have written him att length with the same orders and instruec- tions as wee have given to Borelane and Maxwell of Boston. In a litle time, when things are some better settled, one of our oune number shall be dis- patched for Jamaica, that nothing in our power may be wanting towards the relieving, if possible, the honour of our Countrey and interest of the Company. Lwetennant Oliphant, who came by Jameson’s ship (wherof wee see the wrack in this Bay), together with six other gentlemen, have stay’d here- abouts among the’ natives ever since they arrived, and they gave us account that the said ship was burned, together with all the provisions, &c., on board, except a few hhds. of meill, through the inadvertence of the cooper, when a 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 215 drawing brandy with a candle, which kindled it so as it could not be ex- tinguished. Nine villains run away with our 8 oar-boat when the coxwain and most of the crew were on y® watch; whether or not they were en- couraged by our plotters so to doe, wee can not tell ; only it is hard other- - wayes to give account of their designe. None of them are yet returned, albeit it be 14 dayes since they deserted. Wee shall be loath to conclude that your H® will judge our sailling from Boote conterary to orders, or that the Directors att Glasgow will alleadge the same. However, being att a loss, through our absence (in caice any such thing should be alleadged or believed), wee have, for our oune vindication, sent yow inclosed a copy of the letter wee had from these gentlemen of Glasgow. Yow know our commission was from a full court, with orders to saill, p. first, which orders could only be countermanded by the same autho- rity whence they flowed: meantime, any reasonable man may judge how farr even these gentlemen themselves countermanded us, and wee ez super- abundanti obeyed them, by staying longer than they desired. As to this place of settlement, ’tis so farr as wee have seen yet, mountainous and full of trees, wherof wee know but few fitt for use ; and of Nuerago or log- wood, wee have seen none. The soil is extraordinary deep and rich ; and there are mineralls here, but of what sort we cannot tell. Wee found one like silver- ore, which Mr. Kylle, y® refiner, calls copper, after tryall. Wee reckon y¢ coast of digging for it, and hewing it out of a hard rock, &., would be more than any profite ariseing from it. That which was called gold dust is indeed very thick here, particularly at our watering-place, in and about the water; but it proves really nothing att all but slimy stuff, verifying the proverb, ’tis not all gold that glisters. Among the natives wee find nothing of gold or silver save a few nose jewells, such as you have seen ; and scarcely amongst them all wee have found so much as ane ounce of gold in mass or lignet, which they gett from y® Spaniards; but of the dust or ore, not one grain. And wheras there were ample accounts given of the natives being at warr with the Spaniards, and that they were our fast freinds, wee find tuo of their Captains, viz., Pedro and Augustine, with silver headed staves, as Spanish Captains, willing, notwithstanding, to goe with us and plunder the Spaniards, as noe doubt they would doe us, if the Spaniards would help them ; but really, to do ey™ they would need great help, for they are people of low stature, 216 THE DARIEN PAPERS. ; 1699. and weak like ; and a Scots granadeer would find it no hard work to defeat ten of them. Meantime, the place att first settlement of the Colony was, and yet continues to be, unpossessed by Spaniards or other Europeans ; and wee are wellcome enough to the natives, so that our right cannot be questioned. We are in no great fear that any army of the Spaniards or others (who march toward us by land from any place where there is a sufficient number) can, after their march, be in condition to harme us : and by sea, were our forts and batteries, which are all quite demolished, rebuilt and well planted, there would be no great fear of invasion, for the Bay is good, and very defencible ; but wee have litle hopes of getting ought done till we have working instru- ments. The place, by its situation in this pairt of the world, is fitt for com- merce ; and, if money be bestowed, honest men imployed, and good measures followed, a firme settlement may be made, so that strangers may promise themselves safety here ; but on planting and improvemt no great stress can be laid for reimburseing the adventurers, unless negroes be procured, white men being unfitt for that work, more coastly in their maintainance, and so only fitt for defending the settlemt and overseeing the work ; so that all things conducive to the settling, a staple port must be now thought on, and provi- sions, ammunition, working instruments, &c., sent p. first, oy™wayes ‘twill be impossible to doe good here. Wee thought ourselves obleidged in conscience to give this true and plain account of things, and our oune sentiments, that yow may have fair occasion of considering how farr ’twill be the interest of ye Company and honour of our countrey to prosecute the designes for settling here; and the rather, because we are not insensible how much y® haill nation has been abused by sneeking and disingenuous accounts of matters, quite con- terary to what is obvious to any indifferent persone. We neither doe nor shall grudge the Company.any service wee are capable to performe till your answer come (if so be wee can subsist till then) ; but you know Captain Gibsone and James Byres were to lye under no obligation of con- cerning themselves in the government here ; and Major Lindsay came only as your H®- trustee, for which post, as matters now stand, there’s no great occasion ; and Captain Veitch not arriveing till after the desertion of the Colony, for which he was chosen Counsellor, thinks not himself obleidged to exerce as such. Meantime, we shall not disgracefully lay down the Ce ‘ 1699. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 217 batton so providentially putt in our hands ; only, with your answer, let some of your number, or such other persons as you'll please to appoint, come here with full instructions, and the charge wee have shall be honestly and cheer- _ fully delivered up to them, and full satisfaction given, that wee have in every step so behaved ourselves, as if all the adventure had been for our oune account. All y® stewarts on board this ship have proven knaves ; and we are vexed beyond measure with hearing, judgeing, and punishing them and other rascalls, of which kind there was never a greater collection among so few men. Our time is so spent with such uneasie work, that all business of consequence is retarded. He of our number whom we send to Jamaica shall have with him another copie of this letter, and of all the papers inclosed, to be forwarded to your He: least this should miscary. The list of our dead on board the severall ships is inclosed. There will be much occasion for one to supply Capt. Wallace’s room as engineer. He indeed was a pretty well accomplished gentleman ; but Capt. Ker, who is in custody, as is said, will not be a fit man for doeing service here, though he had skill, and wee intend to be quitt of him. Now, to conclude this long melancholy letter, in caice we have ommitted ought, the best way to understand that, is to read ore what was formerly written, and judge y® truth to lye on the other side. Wee need not urge y¢ necessity of being supplyed, in caice you intend the continuance of the Colony ; and whether or not, our hearing from you, with such orders as yow shall be pleased to give, Riegut HonovurRABLE, Your most humble and obedient Servants, J AMES GIBSONE. JA. BYRES. J. LINDSAY. W™. VEITCH. 218 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. XXIV.—PAPERS REGARDING THE DISPUTE BETWEEN CAPTAIN DRUMMOND AND MR. BYRES.* Querigs BY Captain DrumMoND.+ Mr. Byrzs having assumed the government in Caledonia, I desire he may be examined upon the following queiryes :— ARTICLE 1° At my first arrivill aboard of the Rising Sun, I found you in, a strange consternation by reason of the former Coloney’s being gone. You told me there was not six weeks provisions in the fleet, and that it was your best way to goe to the adjacent Islands, and doe what you could for your- selves. You know you spock to several of the Captains to this effect, and told them they should be considered extraordimarly ; and you furder said, you were not come to settle a Coloney, but to have reinforced one. 20. The reason why Porto Bello was not attackt as I proposed, after you had told me there was not six weeks provision in the fleet, you knew your answer was, that you were not come to take in touns ? 3°. The reason why you assumed the power as being the only Councillour, and that there was no other there but your self, yett you was satisfied to continue those in the Commission, altho’, by its owne words, it became null at the droping anchor in Caledonia Road, you know; upon which Captaim Vetch, and several of the Captains, protested against the same, and desired it might be incerted in the minuits 4 4°. The state of provisions’ being knowne, which was six months to above one thousand men,—what reason had you to press the sending all from the Coloney except five hundred, which you proposed might be sent to Jamaica, and there disposed off 4 5° It being carried in Council, by your instigation, that all should be sent from the Coloney except 500, who was immediatly to be sent off, with three weeks provision, for Jamaica, all the pretence you had for the same was, to * It will be seen that these Documents stand in the chronological order rather of the matters to which they refer than of their own date. + From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 219 save victualls for those who was to stay; yet, for all this pretence, you de- tained all those who was to be sent off, and gave no orders for the same, till several times I sent you inteligence that the enemy was on their march towards us. : 6°. At the time, in Council, when I proposed Credet for the Colony, what reason had you to exclaim against the Directors, and, while the vote was passing, you several times called out not to pin their faith upon ane other man’s sleeve? You assured them there was no provisions to be expected from Scotland, which all was to discourage the Captains who were called to Council at that time. 7°. The reason why you give your men one your voyage full allowance, and, as soon as you had set the men to work, shortened their provisions 4 Neither did you let anybody know whom you were to send away. All which occasioned great discontent and grumblings amongst the people ; every one saying, what reason had they to work or build hutts for others, they not knowing whither they were to stay or goe ? 8°- When it was condescended what officers were to be sent away, it will appear they were the only men who were for taking in of touns, as you still termed it, as also any others who appeared for the interest of the Coloney. Yea, your envey run so much against the forementioned, that you would not allow some of them to stay, altho’ they offered to reduce themselves, and carry armes in those companies you designed to keep. 9°. Why would you not allow me 150 men of those that was to be sent to Jamaica, altho’ I offered that each man should signe, under his owne hand, that he should not be further troublesome to the Coloney till they were in a condition to receave them ? 10°. Upon what head you intercommened me, and all those who came from New York in the companies sloupe with me, and kept my self close prisoner for six weeks 4 11. Why you seazed the companies sloup and cargo, and my owne effects: without giving me any recept for the same, or allowing any to take it off my hand befor you sent me to prison 4 12. The reason you would not employ Captain Stewart, who offered his services to the Coloney, and offered to goe and fetch provisions ; and the reason why you was so barbarous to these poor saillers which I had brought 220 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. alongst you, not allowing them any provisions, so that they were obliged to shift among the natives, and continued so, till they had the occasion of ane English sloup, which brought them off some time after the Fort was delivered up 4 ‘ 13. Upon what head you seazed Captain Ker, your ingeinier, and several other of the Officers, and particularly Mr. Alexander Hamiltoun, who you made prisoner, and for near six weeks time did not allow him any provisions, and that he bid to goe from the Coloney, but not his effects with him @ 14. When the owners of the New England sloup, which was qualified, offered provisions which they had aboard, and that they would goe and fetch more, and they off’red to take bills drawen on Mr. Boarlands, at that time you refused, saying, those bills would return on yourselves ; but, some days thereafter, you granted the said bills for the sloupe and cargo, but would not employ the said people to bring any provisions to the Coloney. 15. Seeing it was carried that the halfe of the men was to settle, what reason had you for not allowing the Fort to be put in a pouster of defence, but you always saing you would fight all the Spaniards you should see there 4 16. What reason had you to vilepend the Indians, and to make them apear litle, still saying that they were no better than a parcle of mounckies, and that their friendship was not worth, altho’ I had begged several times they should carry fair with the Indians, knowing very well we could not secure our settlement without their friendship 4 17. After you had bought the New England sloupe, and having another sloupe, the reason why none of them was sent for provisions, nor ane account of your resettlement to the Court of Directors 4 18. Seeing the Officers of the General Council franckly offered their effects for supplying the Colony, the reason why it was not excepted of ? 19. The reason why Mr. Byres sent a bad account of the countrey, and, while there, still discouraging the people, which makes it appear he had no designe to stay there, for the whole time he was there, he had not been a pistle shott from the shoare side, so that he could not be capable to give any account of the situation and soill of the said place ? 20. Why you left the Coloney, and went to Jamaica, after you had been the occasion. of all the discontents, and the hinderer of the Forts being 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 221 repaired, and that you would not belive the enemy was on their march, on purpose you might shake your head out of the halter, and the misfortunes that most inevitablie follow after the mismanagements which ‘you principly was the occasion off? 21, The reason why you returned back with the Companies sloupe to Jamaica, after you saw me with the Companies ship, The Speedy Return, in danger ; you pretended you wanted provisions, but you had enough to carry you to Jamaica but not for three houres, about which time I entered into Caledonia. You also pretended the Master would not carry the Sloup doune, but the Master, Ninian Warddan, declared befor his death that you forct him away, offering to brack his head with a billet of wood, and threatningly told him was not he to obey you? and one of the men who was at the helmn deserted as soon as they came to Jamaica, Mr. Byres having sworne that he would cause hang him for offering to take the master’s part. 22. Why you did not use your authority in Jamaica to gett away the Companie’s Ships ? but you and them continued there, disposing of your owne effects, whereas there was no other occasion for your staying there,—so I may justly say you have been the loss of the whole fleet. 23. After it was condescended that I should have the Companie’s Sloup to goe to the windward Islands, fearing any of the Companie’s Ships should be misfortunate for want of intelligence,—the reason why you would not allow what was necessar for the fitting out of the said Sloup, so that she was left, I not being capable myself to fitt her, so that I count the said Sloup lost also to the Company ? 24, Upon what head you went away with the Rising Sun, csi taking the rest of the Ships.alongst, you having sailled two dayes sooner then the time you had appointed the fleet to saill on ? 25. I desire that all those Officers who has been in the Coloney, and are comed home, may be examined anent the Carriage of Mr. Byres, and my owne behaviour in both the first and last, expeditions. THos- DRUMMOND. The names of those that are comed home is as followeth— Capt. David Newlands. Capt. Alexander Stewart. Capt. John Tellfour. Livetennent Thomas Nisbet. 222 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. Livetennent Skein. Ensigne Forrester, » Ensigne Colquhoun. Ensigne Hugh Campbell. John Clark, purser of the St. Andrew. Alexander Seatoun, Midshipman in the Caledonia ; and several others not heir mentioned. The reason why ye did not assume Councilors, as I desired yow, upon the account of credite to the Coloney ? A REPRESENTATION by James Byres, Mert, to ye Ricur Hono™® Tue Court or Directors of y® InpIAN AND, AFRICAN ComMPANY in relation to Capr. Taomas DrumMonp.* The letters sent home by the Councill on board y® Ryseing Sun of 23 Dec? 1699, 3d and 29th Febr¥ 1700, together with the Journall written by the Captain himself, give so full ane account of what concerns his management and intromissions at Caledonia, New York, and St. Thomas, that I shall need only recapitulat a litle; and by so doing, it will appear that there were many cogent reasons agt the admitteng of the Capt. into any new trust, untill he hade given satisfaction anent y® old. 1°. I shall desyre that y® credentialls in his favours by Capt. Samuell Vetch and Mr. Patersone may be considered ; and herein ‘twill be convenient to consider their characters, in so farr as can be understood from their own writings. Capt. Drummond, in his Journall now in Mr. Mackenzie’s hands, gives ane accot- of a plott in y® Councill (to which all save Mr. Patersone and himself were consenting), for carrying to Amsterdam all the Company’s ships and effects, and selling them there for their own,accot, and dividing y® proceeds among them. But how these’two dissenters came to outvote three or more, and could not as well stope y¢ Collonies desertion, as this designed cheat, is not yet to me intelligible, except by what follows of the management at New York. Next, Capt Samuell Vetch, in a letter to his brother William, gives Mr. Patersone the character of foulle, knave, or both, whereby ‘tis pretty plain what faith ought to have been given to Capt. Drummond, without cre- dentialls from oy™ hands. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 223 2°. Considering that Capt. Drummond knew Vetche’s disloyal and bad designes concerning the Company’s effects, ’tis pretty plain that his leaving (as he says) the trust of all on boarde y* Caledonia and Unicorne to him was very unfair dealling at New York ; and his accepting of any Credentialls from such a persone as Vetch dishonourable to himself, except he could have kept his journall better from being discovered to y® world. 3° This seeming not to have been done without designe, if it be further considered that Capt. Drummond acknowledged that he bought some of ye Company’s goods at New York from Vetch ; and he can easily be remembered that ere he told ought of that bargain, I hade apprehended some of ye Com- pany’s saill-douk in his hutis, which he said was his own, and I could not say to y® contrare till Liv'- Walter Grahame espyed on it Capt. Gibsone’s seall and mark, being bought by him for ye Company’s accot- at Amsterdam ; and then Capt. Drummonde told me he hade bought it from Capt. Vetch. By which (to putt y® most favourable construction on this action) it is evident the trust was devolved on Vetch, whereof the absurdity is already represented ; or if Capt. Drummond continued in his own trust, he was both buyer and seller of the Company’s goods, and so could not miss good payt-—the payer and receiver being one, ffor I never saw any acknowledgement under Vetche’s hand of the selling or receiveing pay’, though I have herewith given in ane accot- signed by Capt. Drummond, whereby it is acknowledged he bought goods to y® value of £116, 17s. 6d. New England money, which cost the Company a great deall more Sterling money. 4°. Capt. Drummond made a proposition (as would appeare) by concert with Vetch, that there should be bills sent to New York for £2000 sterling ; which soume Vetch would receive and buy provisions, &c., with it to be sent to Caledonia. But though Capt. Drummond thought that convenient, yet we of the Councill thought it fitt to trust Vetch no further till he gave satisfac- tion concerning proceedings ; and what was done at our giiall Meetings of the land and sea Captains, as well as Councellours, in relation to this matter, is plain by y® Minuts and Journall in the Secretarie’s hands, and by my answer to some questions on that heade minuted befor the Court of Directors; and I hope these will give satisfaction to all that shall be at y° pains of perusing them, that y® best expedients were fallen on and duely prosecuted. 5°. Capt. Drummond said his designe of returning to Caledonia was to 224 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. resettle y¢ Colonie ; and what things he brought with him for that end (except some provisions) are contained in the inclosed list ; and indeed he should not deny that the hatchets, &c., were y® worst were sent allong with the first colonie, and such (as it would appeare) would not sell at New York. 6°. There could never any accounts be gotten what provisions or oy? things were loaded on boarde y* Sloop wherein Capt. Drummond came from New York to Caledonia, nor of what he sold at St. Thomas. Only, he said, he would give what he hade, and we were not to ask questions. 7°. Neither would he ever condescend on the number of men carried off when y® Colonie deserted the Settlement, nor give, account what goods he loaded on board the Company’s ships; albeit his journall maketh mention of himself as the only Counsellour in health the tyme of y® desertion, and that he gott the seall bills of loading signed. Only, he says, things were equally divided among the three big ships, the Caledonia, Unicorne, and St. Andrew, which very acknowledgement goes neare to y® constituting of a charge. - 8°. I shall only referr to our journall and letters sent home for an aecot of Capt. Drummond’s behaviour in y® Colonie while I was there, not doubting but what is said doth sufficiently justify his imprisonment, without mentioning the sedition and mutinees occasion’d by him, whereof due notice was taken by the Councill, of which I was a member now only liveing. 9°. There were some arms, &c., disposed on by Capt. Drummond, which arms, &c., were sent from on boarde y® Ryseing Sun, Capt. Balzie, commander of ye Speedy Returne, in which he came from Caledonia to Jamaica; and whereof Balzie can give y® best account. What Capt. Drummonde intromitted with of Mr. Daniell Mackay’s effects, I hope will be enquyred into by friends concerned. 10. On the arryveall of Leonard Robertson’s ship at Jamaica, albeit the brandy on boarde could have been sold to gude accot, and thereby seall un- frugall bargains prevented, yet Capt. Drummond would not allow his Cousin (as he called him) Mr. M‘Dougall to deliver it towards the fitting out y® Ryseing Sun, &c., for Scotland ; yea, when I demanded a sight of y® Directors’ letters, I was refused the same, and Capt. Vetch only saw them in, but gott them not out of Drummond and M‘Dougall’s hands ; and what was in them is more then I yet know. So that a former Councill being named, and no mention made of me,’and these letters deny’d me on that very accot, I thought, as I 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 225 yet think, that my medleing in any of the Company’s bussines would seem very impertinent ; besides, if I hade overlooked that and medled, I should have been at a loss to behave, never haveing seen y® instructions contained in the letters above mentioned. “Tis true there were two tuns of brandy delivered to Capt. Vetch on his receipt, which he put on boarde the Company’s ships ; and Capt. Drummonde, on his own receipt, gott 2 or 3 HHds., I know not really which ; and for these, I suppose, he most be accountable to ye Company. By what is said, I have given account how farr Capt. Drummond is chargeable by the Company, and shown that he is no less, if not more, lyable than Capt. Samuel Vetch, so that I’m hopefull the Court of Directors will, pursuant to ye trust of y® executive power reposed in them by y* Company, duely prose- cute all concerned ; and not only endeavour the Company’s reimbursement, but also y® punishment of those who are guilty of so manifest breach of trust in such a publick and nationall concerne. And it will be worth the pains to observe, that the assumeing of new Councellours in Caledonia, and sending Mr. Mackay to Scotland, the keeping of ye Company’s goods indisposed on for supplying the Colonie, and also the setting up of a suttleing-house whereby to make prey of y* Officers’ and oyt Gentlemen’s privat stocks, together with the fyne resolution already mentioned, and the equivalent of it afterward practiced, are all so much of one kinde, that none but y® willfully ignorant can say that the Company’s affeirs have been well managed by the Councell of the first Colonie, and in partar by Capt. Thomas Drummond. Ait Hdr- 26th Febry. 1701. Ja. Byres. EXAMINATION BEFORE A CoMMITTEE OF DIRECTORS.* Edinburgh, the 11th day of July, 1701. Ata Committee of the Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, specially appoited to enquire into and examin the several persons lately come from the West Indies, with relation to the different accots- given by James Byres and Capt. Thomas Drummond concerning the management of affairs in Caledonia and elsewhere, and their accusations hine inde. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 2 226 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. Liev! Robert Turnbull being examined by particular questions as to what he knew concerning the premises, he declared, that he knew nothing of what was done by the Councellours at New York with relation to the Company’s effects there, in regard that he was all the time ashoar, except two days that he kept guard on board the ship; but that he conceived such an opinion of Capt. Robert [Thomas] Drummond’s capacity and vigilance in any thing committed to his trust, that he doubted not but he could give a very good account of all that was on board of his ship. He says, he does not believe but that the hatchets and other iron tools which they carried along with them back again from, New York to Caledonia, were of the best on board the Caledonia. He declares, that as to the first eight Queries proposed by Capt. Thomas — Drummond in a paper sign’d under his hand, he knows nothing but by hearsay, he having been then in the bottom of the gulph of Darien for intelligence among the Indians ; and that, upon his return, he gave Capt. Thomas Drum- mond an accot- of the weak condition of St- Maria, of which he had positive and particular information from the Indians; and that thereupon Capt. Thomas Drummond having made a proposal for geting one hundred and fifty of such of the men appointed to be sent to Jamaica as would be willing to take their fate with him, with arms, and their proportion of the three weeks’ provision allotted for carrying them to Jamaica, &c. Capt. Thomas Drum- mond and himself were thereupon confined to prison summarly, without giving any reason for the same; and both of them, and all the others who came along with them from New York, strictly intercommuned by proclamation. He says, that he ow’d no particular obligation to, or had any dependance upon any one of the Colony; nor so much as ever had any acquaintance of Capt. Thomas Drummond before they went from hence to Caledonia ; but that the constant zeal he discovered in him for promoting the general under- taking endeared him to him, which readily induced him to return with ditto Drummond to Caledonia, tho’ he had advantageous proffers made to him else- where ; and that he had no byass upon him as to any declaration that he had made or was to make in answer to what the Directors thought fit to pro- pose to him. He declares, that one day expostulating with Mr. Byres about the validity of the credit proposed by Capt. Drummond for getting provisions at New 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 227 York,—as knowing very well the forwardness of the people there in that matter, partly through inclination and partly to a prospect of gain, notwithstanding of the proclamations,—Mr. Byres gave as a reason for rejecting that proposal, that he had discovered by the papers which Capt. Drummond brought along with them, that those who gave ditto Drummond his credentials called one another rascalls, and both agreed in calling Drummond an honest man. He says, that after his releasement, he applyed to the Council for a declar- ation of his innocence, which he could not procure, though upon his pressing for it, Mr. Byres said, that what he sought was indeed reasonable and just in itself, but was not practicable. *! He declares, that all the time he was in Caledonia, after the arrival of the Rising Sun, he was not allowed any provisions from the Council of the Colony, untill he returned wounded from the place where they had defeated the Spaniards. He says, that he was not return’d from the Gulph of Darien at the time when Captain Stewart and the Master of the New England’s sloop did _pro- pose to bring them more provisions upon the credit proposed by Capt. Drum- mond, but that Capt. Stewart and others told him of it afterwards. He declares, that happening to be present when one James Jaffray came to Mr. Byres with a complaint that one of the Indians threatened to shoot him, Mr. Byres said that these fellows (meaning the Indians) should be hang’d ; and that upon his expressing several other slighting words about them, he, the said Lievt- Turnbull, expostulated with him about the usefullness of the Indians’ friendship, that he never knew any of them prove treacherous to the Colony, and that if once they beginn to maltreat the Indians in any such rough and disobliging manner, they must resolve to go never thereafter with- out the botnds of their Fort ; and that thereupon Mr. Byres gave him a short answer that they were not come there for taking of towns. He declares, that he travell’d for two days together, in company with Mr. Shiels and the other Ministers, among the Indians, and brought intelligence of the Spanish preparations and approaches against the Colony by sea and land ; but that the Council seem’d to slight the same, and that Mr. Byres, in particular, said, he would fight all the Spaniards that would come there, for that he could not believe the Spaniards could bring any considerable force against them through the woods. 228 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. He says, that of those appointed to be sent to Jamaics, Lievt- John Camp- bell, in particular, told him he had offered to stay rather and serve in Cale- donia as a Volunteer. He says, that one John Cardinis, a Spaniard, whom Capt. Drummond carried along with him back again from New York to Caledonia, was an extraordinary Pilot all along that coast, and had offered to pilote them in to Portabell, and did actually pilote in the Rising Sun to Caledonia harbour ; and that tho’ a native Spaniard, yet being obliged to fly from Carthagena as having kill’d a man there, and that having a sense of the obligations which he owed to both the Captain Drummond’s kindness and care of him, he was very willing to serve the Colony against the Spaniards in Portobell ; and that tho’ he the said Lievt- Turnbull made intimation to the Council of the Colony _ that he had seen the said Spaniard on board of the sloop which carried Mr. Gelly and Caldwell to Jamaica, and tho’ the sloop lay at anchor within Golden Island 24 hours thereafter, they wholly slighted that advertisement, and let him go; and that thereafter the very same Spaniard piloted in the Spanish fleet to the mouth of Caledonia Bay, being sent from Jamaica by Sir James Castil for that effect. He declares, that there was an iid man, who came to the Colony after the arrival of the Rising Sun, and gave himself out for one who knew those parts, and had lately come from the South Sea and knew the Isthmus, &e., and offered to conduct any party that they would think fit to send along with him where they might get gold and riches in plenty, &c.; but that the Council first confin’d him and then banished him, with certification not to be seen within two days journey of the Colony, under the pain of hanging. He declares, that the place where they made their settlement, by all that he could learn, was inferiour to none in the West Indies for richness of soil, and was capable of producing any thing that grew in the Spanish or English plantations in those parts ; and that without doubt there were rich minerals very near the settlement, were they in condition and had time to look after them ; and that Mr. Keil had refined some few ounces of good silver out of a rock hard by the look-out of Fort St. Andrew; and that several of the Indians let him see gold dust, which they positively averred they had gathered in the River Pitto, within about 3 leagues, or some more, of Fort St. Andrew. He declares, that he never knew, or could learn, any reason for the Rising a OO ea ee a + ryt ae en get, pea a ee 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 229 Sun and other ships staying so long at Jamaica ; only, he took notice of the disposal of considerable quantities of goods that one of the midshipmen of the Rising Sun had a selling at Cabaritis, near Blewfields, for and upon accot of Captain Gibson. He says, he knows nothing of Capt. Drummond’s having medled with any of Mr. Mackay’s effects. | He declares, that when Capt. Wm. Vetch died on board of the Company’s ship, the Hope, he had two bags of money in his chest belonging (as he believes upon credible grounds) to Archibald Stewart; but that he, the said Lievt- Turnbull, having the key thereof committed to his charge by the deceased, without any intimation about the money, or any thing else, he did not think himself safe to give up either the key or the money, tho’ demanded from him by ditto Stewart, untill he had delivered the key to the deceased’s father, or the Directors of the Company, if they should have calld for it ; yet, that Capt. Collin Campbell, as eldest officer, requiring the key in a com- manding manner, that he might inspect the deceased’s papers, he, the said Lieyt- Turnbull, not being in condition to dispute the matter, delivered up the key to the said Captain Campbell, protesting, and taking witnesses, that it was against his will, and that the said Captain Campbell should be ac- countable for his intromissions. He declares, that after the Company’s ship, the Hope, was cast away, and that he, with several others, had gone in a Spanish sloop to the Havana, the seamen who came thither after them did declare that Capt. Miller loaded the long boat very deep with provisions, goods, and arms, and signified to them that he was following those gone to the Havana ; and that the seamen, not finding him arrive at the Havana before them, believed that the boat was sunk, as being too deeply loaded, &c. Rot. TURNBULL. 230 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. A Report from the Particunar CoMMITTEE appointed to examine and enquire into the specialities of the several matters of fact repre- sented by James Byres and Capt. Tuomas Drummonn, hine inde against one another.* My Lorps anpD GENTLEMEN, r Pursuant to your order of reference of the 18th of February last, concern- ing James Byres and Captain Thomas Drummond, we have often called them joyntly and separately before us, and examined not only themselves face to face, but also all such witnesses as they could adduce upon the several heads of which they accuse each other ; and we could have made a greater progress in that affair long before now, were it not for Mr. Byre’s refusing to attend the diets of our committee, and delaying from time to time (tho’ often required thereunto) to give in the original journal or minutes of his own and the other Councellours, and proceedings during their voyage to Caledonia, and after their arrival there, together with the other original papers, which at first he acknowledged he had, relating to the Company and Colony. Upon representing of which, this Court was pleased to procure a warrant for seizing of his papers ; but, upon a scrutiny of such papers as were found in his chamber (of which a list is hereunto subjoin’d), and by what follows, it seems evident to us that he could not but have several other books and papers relating to the Company and Colony which he industriously conceals (as we suppose), merely to keep us in ignorance of these matters as much as he can, as knowing that most of all those who could give material evidence against his proceedings were dead. However, upon reading and comparing the letters which the said James Byres and other Councellours sent home, and the journal and papers given in by ditto Byres, with such other papers as were seized in his chamber, we make the following observations thereupon, viz. :— jmo By a letter of the 22d of Septem™ 1699, the Council on board the Rising Sun, riding in the road of Boot, desir’d S* John Shaw to send them some boatfulls of provisions, and a credit for beef to be bought there, &c. ; and * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. / 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 231 yet, upon the receipt of a letter from the said St John Shaw, and two other Directors, of the 22d ditto, advising that two boats full of provisions were upon the water, and that the Court of Directors had sent an express, order- ing the ships not to sail (even tho’ the wind should prove fair) untill Mr. Mackay should arrive at them, &c.; yet they sailed on Sunday the 24th ditto, by 9 a clock in the forenoon, without waiting for either these provisions or Mr. Mackay ;* from which we naturally gather, that they would certainly have waited for these boats coming to them, were it not that they were resolved to leave Mr. Mackay behind, and thereby disappoint any new orders or commission which they supposed he might have had along with him ; and this is further presumable from what St John Shaw declares, viz., that upon some unbecoming behaviour of theirs, while they lay before Greenock, he threatned to summon a Court of Directors, to recall their commission, if they did not mend their manners ; yea, such was their haste to sail after the receipt of the advice above mention’d, that tho’ they knew nothing of it till ten a clock at night on Saturday, they made shift to sail by nine a clock next morning, leaving behind them not only the rice, flower, beef, and other pro- visions, which they wrote for to St John Shaw, but even the very persons (namely, St Alexander Kinnaird and others) whom they sent ashoar for those provisions ; and this their precipitate sailing is so much the more re- markable, that the wind served several times much better for about a month before (after they got their sailing orders) than it did at that time. (2°) The journal given in by Mr. Byres says, that, on the 8th of Decem- ber, Capt. Thomas Ker got orders to oversee the building of the hutts within Fort St Andrew, and that one half of the men should be a shoar dayly for clearing of ground and cutting of wood for that end; yet there is not one word of that in the minutes of that day’s sederunt produced and sign’d by Mr. Byres himself. (3°) The sign’d minutes and journal of the 18th of December makes men- tion, that Alexander Campbell was, on the 17th ditto, made prisoner ; yet we see no manner of minute or order of the 17th for that or any thing else.+ (4°) Upon the 19th, the said Council, finding it convenient (as it is worded * See above, pp. 198 and 215. + The documents printed above, p. 204, appear to be a portion of those here referred to. 232 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. in their minutes and journal) that some persons should be secured till a far- ther discovery were made of the hellish designs on foot, Resolved, that Capt. Thomas Ker, his brother, Lievt’Ker, Alexander Hamilton, James Miln, and Henry Oliphant, should be kept in custody till further discovery, and that Capt. Thomas Drummond and Lievt Tyrnbull should be confined to their hutts, and they, and all the other persons that came along with them, inter- communed, and Ensign Spark and Lieyt Logan likewise imprisoned, which we find was accordingly done, tho’ there appears no information to have been given in, nor depositions taken against them. (5°) By the minutes of the 26th of December, it appears that Capt. Drum- mond’s papers were not before then seiz’d, tho’, at the first, Mr. Byres pre- tended the contents of these papers to be the cause of his imprisonment. (6°) By Mr. Byres’ journal, the instructions from the Council to Gelly and Caldwell for going to Jamaica are said to be given on the 27th of December, though no minute appears of the 27th, 28th, or 29th; but, on the contrary, we find a sign’d minute, banishing an Irish man, dated the 30th, which hath been written close subjoyn’d to the minute of the 26th, on the same half sheet of paper, and afterwards cutt of for reasons best known to Byres, who did cut the same, as appears by a noie of his own handwriting thereon. (7°) Notwithstanding that, in Byres’s journal there is mention made of orders of the 13th of December 1699, of the 12th and 17th January 1700, — and of the 3d, 7th, 11th, and 13th of February, yet the minutes of these days are wanting, at least not produced to us. ; (8°) By Byres’s journal (if true), it appears that, from the 30th of Decem- ber to the 3d of February, the Council never mett, nor gave any manner of orders, except on the 12th and 17th of January. (9°) We find that, upon the arrival of the Rising Sun and other ships in” Caledonia Bay, it was given out that they had but six weeks provisions on— board, and that they should all go to the adjacent Islands to shift for them- selves the best way they could, for that they were to expect no relief from Scotland ; all which discouraged the men mightily, as appears positively by the 7th article of Capt. Alexander Stewart’s, the 6th article of Ensign Hugh Campbell’s, the 4th article of Lievt William Logan’s, the 2d article of Capt. David Newland’s, and the 2d article of Capt. James Urquhart’s declarations. (10°) We find that, upon this noise about scarcity of provisions, Capt. 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. , 233 Thomas Drummond made a proposal of landing all the sick men, with neces- saries, and a competent number of others to look after them, in Caledonia, and that all the rest, with the ships, should go to make reprisal upon the Spaniards, by attacking Portobello, but that it was rejected ; and that Mr. Byres particularly said, they were not come there to take towns ; and that at last it became a byword, that whoever seem’d to be against Mr. Byres’s measures, was by him said to be one of those who were for taking of towns. This is proved by the 8th Article of Capt. Alexander Stewart's, the 6th Ar- ticle of Ensign Hugh Campbell’s, the 5th Article of Liev’ William Logan’s, and the 2d Article of Ensign Robert Colquhoun’s respective declarations. And further, ditto Byres acknowledges, under his own hand, in his answer to our 2d Quest., that he was against this proposal, and in his journal calls it a chi- merical one ; and at his examination told ourselves that he believed there was none upon the expedition who knew where Portobell lay, or that was capable of directing them thither. (11°) We find that Capt. Thomas Drummond had a Spaniard along with him (named John Cardinis), who was an extraordinary pilote for all that coast, and offered to pilote them into Portobel for a reasonable consideration, and that he piloted the Rising Sun into Caledonia Harbour, but that he was not regarded by Council on board ; and that, contrary to positive advice, he was allowed to go to Jamaica, tho’ Capt. Thomas Drummond (after he was “made prisoner) sent Lievt Turnbull to ‘the Council on board the Rising Sun, to desire that, by any means, they should not allow the said Spaniard to go away, or otherwise they would repent it. Notwithstanding whereof, the said * Council neglected the said Spaniard, and let him openly away to Jamaica ; and the very self same Spaniard was afterwards pilote to, and conducted the Spanish Fleet to Caledonia, when it was blocked up. This is positively proved by the 7th Article of Ensign Hugh Campbell’s, the 12th and 14th Articles of Capt. Alex’ Stewart’s, the 5th Article of Liev’ William Logan’s, and 1st Article of Capt. David Newlands respective declarations. (12™0) We find, notwithstanding of the former report propagated about the scarcity of provisions, that upon further search and rummaging of the holds, they found six months provisions on board, as appears not only by the declarations of all that have been examined upon that head, but also by letters under the hands of James Byres, and the other Councellours on board the Rising Sun. 2G 234 : THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. (13°) ‘We find that, after the arrival of the Rising Sun and other ships in Caledonia Bay, about 12 days were elapsed before any men were put a shoar to work, and that, even after that, there were only some small detachments sent a shore, who returned always a ship board at night, and that little or nothing was done untill the Spaniards appeared at sea. This is positively proved by the 3d and 4th Art. of Capt. Stewart’s, the 2d and 3d Articles of Ensign Hugh Campbell's, the 1st Article of Lievt W™ Logan’s, and the 1st Art. of Ensign Rot Colquhoun’s declaration. (14°) We find, that all instruments and materials necessary for smiths were on board the Rising Sun, and also that Capt. Drummond carried instru- ments from New York to Caledonia, and that several good smiths were on board the Fleet, but that neither were duly employed nor set to work till it was too late; and that the tools which Capt. Drummond carried from New York to Caledonia were not so much as shafted in several weeks after receipt thereof by the Council, as is positively prov’d by the 6th Art. of Capt. Alext Stewart’s, the 4th Article of Ensign Hugh Campbell’s, and the 3d Art. of Lievt William Logan’s respective declarations. 15to) We find that, after their having made a calculation of having six months provisions on board, they came to a resolution of sending all supernum- eraries of 500 men to be disposed of in Jamaica, which, in our opinion, was not only a barbarous and unaccountable resolution in it self, but was also the occasion of grumblings, divisions, and‘factions among the officers, sailers, and ” planters, and could not well but have terminated in the utter ruine of the Colony. This resolution is prov’d by their Minutes of Council of the 4th and 5th of December, and by their own letters, as well as by the declarations of witnesses ; and, what we find to be a further aggravation thereof is, that when Lievt Logan, as eldest Lievt of them that were appointed to be sent to Jamaica, went, in name and by desire of all the rest, to Mr. Byres, to desire arms to defend themselves in case they should happen to fall in the enemies way, the same was positively refused ; and Mr. Byres afterwards conyveened all the officers that were appointed to be sent to Jamaica, and told them, in a speech, that it would be best for them to hold their tongues ; for, if they conceal’d their condition untill he’d dispose of the men in such manner as he should find most reasonable, he would give all of them money to carry them home to their own countrey. This we find proved by the 11th and 12th © 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 235 Articles of Lievt W™ Logan’s declaration, who refers for further verification thereof to the testimonies of Lievt Alext Gordon, Ensign Spark, or any other who is now alive of those officers above mention’d; and that arms were refused to those men who were appointed to be sent to Jamaica, is further acknowledged, under ditto Byres’s hand, in the last Article of his examination of the 14th of March 1701. (16) We find that, upon their having resolved to send all the men super- numerary to 500 to Jamaica, Capt. Thomas Drummond gave in a proposal in writing to the Council on board the Rising Sun, to let him have 150 of _ such of them as would take their fate with him, with arms, and their propor- tion of the 3 weeks’ provisions allotted to carry them to Jamaica, and that they should not be further burdensome to the Colony till it should be na condition to receive them ; and that, in the mean time, he would lead them upon an adventure that gato be beneficial both to themselves and the Colony.* Yet this proposal was rejected by Mr. Byres and the other Coun- cellours as chimerical, as appears by the Council on board the Rising Sun’s Minutes of the 18th of Decem’, their letters to the Company of the 23d ditto, and ditto Byres’s written answer to our 15th Quest., as well as by the declare tions of other witnesses. (17°) We find, that this proposal of Capt. Drummond’s, relishing with many of the officers and others, these officers who were distinguished to be sent away to Jamaica offered rather to stay in Caledonia, and serve only as volunteers ; but Mr. Byres, and the other Councellours on board the Rising Sun, would not hearken to them. This appears to us from the 14th Article of Liev’ W™ Logan’s, and the 7th Article of Ensign William Colquhoun’s, respective declarations. (18°) We find, that when Capt. Thomas Drummond proposed to supply the Colony with provisions from New York, upon the general credit which the Directors of the Company gave there and at New England, &c., and upon bills to be drawn by the Council of thé Colony in the terms proposed, and - that when Capt. Alext Stewart of New York, and two supercargos of a New England sloop, which was there at the time, offered not only them their cargo, but also to go and bring them more provisions upon the said credit, * See above, p. 203. . 236 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. yet the same was absolutely rejected as insufficient ; as appears not only by the declarations of witnesses, but even by the sign’d Minutes of the 4th of Decemt, and the journal given in by ditto Byres, and the Councill’s letters to the Court of Directors of the 23d of Decem*. (19.) And it is very remarkable, from the 1st Article of Capt. Kani Urquhart’s declaration, and otherways, that, after the question was stated, and some had even given their votes about the sufficiency of the credit pro- posed, Mr. Byres stood up, and interrupted the vote, by moving that the state of the vote should be altered, which, being seconded by Major Lindsay, was done accordingly ; and had by that means got it only carried by the votes of the two Captains of the hired ships, that the said credit was not sufficient, to the inexpressible prejudice of the Company and Colony: And that Mr. Byres’s behaviour upon that occasion proceeded more from humor than any good design, is evident from this: that after they had imprison’d Capt. Drummond summarly, they made use of the said credit in buying both the sloop and cargo of provisions which ditto Drummond carried along with him from St. Thomas to Caledonia, and they gave bills to the supercargos for the same, which were duly paid by the Company: and this their con- duct, in buying a sloup at a considerable price, for no other purpose, that ever we could yet learn, but to carry ditto Byres to Jamaica, seems to us still the more unaccountable, since the supercargos declared their willingness (or rather choice) to sell the cargo alone, and go back to New England or New York with the sloop, to carry more provisions to the Colony; as ap- pears positively by the 9th Art. of Capt. Stewart’s, and the 9th Art. of Ensign Hugh Campbell’s respective declarations, and likewise by Byres’s own answer to our 13 Query. . (20.) We find, that Capt. Thomas Drummond’s proposals, above mention’d, have been the only true ground of imprisoning him, and the other gentlemen above named, as being favourers thereof, and that they were declared mutinous and seditious by Mr. Byres and his adherents on that score only ; as appears by the 4th Article of Capt. James Urquhart’s, the 9th and 10th Articles of Lievt W™ Logan’s, the 5th and 10th Art.of Ensign Rob. Colquhoun’s, the 11th Article of Capt. Alexander Stewart’s, the 11th Article of Ensign Hugh Campbell’s, the 3d Art. of Capt. David Newland’, respective declarations, and by ditto Byres’s respective answers to our 6th and 15th Queries. 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 237 * (210) We find, that a certain Irish man, named , who eame from the South Sea, was well acquainted with the Indians, understood their language, and knew most of the Isthmus, offered his service to the Colony for several purposes, and particularly to guid any party that they would send with him by land to places where they could have gold and money enough ; but that thereupon he was first imprison’d and then banish’d, with certification that if he were found within two days’ journey of the Colony he would be hang’d without mercy, as appears not only by the 8th Article of Ensign Hugh Campbell’s, the 13th Article of Capt. Alexander Stewarts, the 7th Article of Liev'- William Logan’s, but also by ditto Byres’s own Journal of the 30th of December 1699. (22.) We find that as Capt. Thomas Ker, the Ingineer, was imprison’d all along till the Enemy appeared at sea, so ditto Byres declared often that they had no occasion for a fortification, that he himself would fight all the Spaniards that he would ever. see there, &c., as appears by the 10th Article of Capt. Stewart’s, the 10th Article of Ensign Hugh Campbell’s, the 2d Article of Liev'- William Logan’s, and the 13th Article of Ensign Robert Colquhoun’s respective declarations. (23.) We find that the Indians were debarred entring into Fort St. Andrew for two or three days, untill Mr. Shields had interceded for them, as appears by the 8th Article of Liev: Wm. Logan’s declaration ; and the meanness of Byres’s opinion of them is evident from his own letters, &c. (24.) We find that Mr. Alexander Hamilton was not only imprison’d, but that he had no provisions from the Colony for about six weeks’ time ; and that they seized his own proper brandy, and would not allow him any part of it for his own private use, as appears by the 14th Article of Ensign Robert Colquhoun’s, and the 15th Article of Liev't- Wm Logan’s respective declara- tions, &c. (25.) We find that notwithstanding there was positive and repeated intelli- gence given be several hands that the Spaniards were coming to attack the Colony, yet ditto Byres and his adherents persisted in their Resolution of sending away the two hired ships and all the men, except 500, to Jamaica ; and the said two ships attempted several times to get out of the harbour with these men accordingly, but were hindred by contrary winds only ; and not- withstanding of the foresaid intelligence, ditto Byres went to Jamaica in the 238 . THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. sloop which was bought from the New England men, leaving orders for the said two ships and men to follow him, which they again attempted the very night before Fonabb’s arrival, as appears by the 11th Article of Ensign Robert Colquhoun’s, the 13th Article of Lievt- Wm. Logan’s respective declarations, the Council’s letter to the Directors, and the last Art. of ditto Byres and Drummoid’s examination on the 14th of March 1701. (26.) We find that upon ditto Byres’s meeting with Mr. Mackay at Janisids with new advices from the Court of Directors, and returning to Caledonia along with him, tho’ not in the same ship, Ninian Warden, who commanded the sloop in which Mr. Byres was, declared his forwardness in going into Caledonia along with the other ship in which Capt. Drummond was, after the misfortune of Mr. Mackay’s being drown'd ; but that Mr. Byres threatened him, time after time, to do him mischief if he would not return to Jamaica, which accord- ingly they did, tho’ Capt. Drummond got into the Colony 4 or 5 hours after their departure. And we find likewise that one Robert White, who was then at the helm of Byres’s sloop, ran away at Jamaica for fear of Mr. Byres’s threatning to hang him, because he refused for some time to obey his orders in turning back to Jamaica, untill he struck at him with a billet. All this we find proved by the several declarations of Patrick Montgomery and Thomas Cumming, then chief and second Mates of our Company’s ship the Speedy Return, and Capt. John Telfer, who was then on board of her. (27.) We find by ditto Byres’s letter of the 29th of February 1700 from Jamaica, that as he had taken a large share of the management and govern- ment upon him, so he resolved not to part with it except upon extraordinary terms, and yet now, he says, that after the arrival of the Rising Sun and other ships from Caledonia at Jamaica, he did not, nor would not, meddle any manner of way in the affairs of the Company or Colony ; but owns that Capt. Wm. Vetch did nothing without his knowledge ; and that he was witness to ditto Vetch’s disposing of goods to the value of £400 Ster'- or thereby. At other times, he said that he was specially priviledged to act or not as he thought, as being a Councillour here. And de facto so it is, that, for reasons best known to himself, he seem’d at last to take but very little upon him at Jamaica any more than sometimes to sign a by-order or warrant in conjunction’ ~ with ditto Vetch, for proof whereof we referr to Byres’s own examination under his hand, and:to the declarations of Capt. John Telfer and Lievt: Wm. Logan. 1699-1701. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 239 (28.) We find by several ietters written by Henry Paton (with whom it seems Capt. Maclean left the charge of the St. Andrew) that there was a close correspondence betwixt ditto Byres and ditto Paton before the Rising Sun arrived at Jamaica ; and that Paton disposed of several things belonging to the St. Andrew for ditto Byres’s use, as the said letters seem to import. (29.) We find that some few days before the Rising Sun was cast away, a sloop full of chests, provisions, ropes, and other things, were carried ashore at Carolina, along with Mr. Byres, Liev'- Graham, and the few others who were saved ; and that after her being cast away, ditto Byres has left a letter of attorney or factory with his landlord there concerning the wrack, which still clashes with what he sometimes pretends, viz—That he did not, or would not, meddle after he had seen the last Commission sent along with Mr. Mackay for constituting a new Council by which (he says now) he understood himself excluded ; the most certain it is, that he was not excluded by that any more than by the Commission constituting the former Council. But however it be, Mr. Byres has made no manner of accot- to the Company for his intromissions either in Caledonia, Jamaica, or Carolina. (30.) We find, upon the other hand, that Capt. Thomas Drummond has accounted with the Committee of Directors in constant waiting, for all his intromissions since his departure from Scotland till his return. (31.) We find that what is proved in the forgoing articles against Mr. Byres, is further and more particularly supported and aggravated by several journals and letters under the handwritings of Mr. Alext- Shiels, Capt. Thomas Drum- mond, Capt. Thomas Ker, and others, in custody of our Company’s Secretary ; in one of which letters Mr. Shiels have the following passage, viz.—“ February 7ih. Mr. Byres, who hindred our planting hitherto, and opposed all motions for making any attempt upon the Spaniards, and asserted in dispute with myself that not only we were unable to make any such attempt, but that it was unlawfull for christians under the New Testament dispensation to make any war; and that justice should require we should make reparation to the Spaniards for injuries done to them. I reckon it a considerable. step of our deliverance that this man went in one of our sloops to Jamaica, whereby there was but one more left that ever since our arrival discovered an utter aversion from settling in this place, I mean Major Lindsay, who now wanted both his mouth and hand when the other was gone, and without a Leader could never 240 : THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699-1701. do much himself.”* And in another letter Mr. Shiels gives the character of Capt. Gibson, that he was indifferent how matters went, providing he got his pipe and his drahm; and as for Capt. Vetch, tho’ (as we understand) his inclinations were for joyning with Captain Drummond’s measures, yet want of resolution (it seems) made him fall in with Byres, from all which we naturally gather that Mr. Byres was in effect the ringleader and mainspring of all their conduct. (32.) And consequently it is our opinion, that the said James Byres has not only violated the trust reposed in him by the Company to an extraordinary degree, but also guilty of several unwarrantable, arbitrary, illegal, and in- humane actings and practises highly injurious to the parties concern’d, and manifestly tending to the great and irretrievable loss of the Company and Colony, and to the dishonour of the Nation ; and that he ought to be prose- cuted for the same. . (33.) And upon the other hand, it is our opinion that by all the declarations of the examined witnesses, no manner of proof or evidence appears to us for supporting the said James Byres’s accusations or representation against Capt. Thomas Drummond, but that, on the contrary, the said Captain Thomas Drummond, in going back from New York to Caledonia to give intelligence, with his best advice and assistance to those who he heard were going thither along with the Rising Sun, and bringing them provisions and other necessaries, was very generous and honourable ; and that when he met them he made several rational and good proposals to them both for the honour of the nation, and interest of the Company; and that the usage he mett with from the Council on board the Rising Sun, was barbarous, unnatural, and unjust ; and we are likewise confirmed in this opinion from the several journals and letters above mention’d. All which is humbly submitted to the further judgement of this Court. D. Drummonp. Ro. BLackwoop. Jo. Murray. ALex®- Dunpas. * See in a letter from Mr. Shiels of later date, printed farther on, a like view expressed in nearly the same words. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 241 XXV.—LETTERS AND DISPATCHES FROM THE COLONY.— FEBRUARY, 1700. ee From THE CouUNCIL To THE DIRECTORS.* On board the Riseing Sun in Caledonia Bay, 3d February 1700. RigHt HonourRABLE, Our last was of 23d Decem!?-, which wee sent with Andrew Caldwalls and William Gellie to Jamaica by a small English sloop bound thither, who parted from Golden Island 29th Decemt:; but albeit the Master of the sloop was resolved to returne hither in 20 days att furthest (haveing left his canoa and some men for catcheing turtle,) yet he is ney’ returned nor have wee heard ought concerning him since he pairted. So wee know not what to think of his stay except (as God forbid) the sloop be lost or fallen into inconveniencie att Jamaica for having been here. Meantime this comes by James Byres to Jamaica on board the English sloop which wee bought here ; and all we formerly wrote you is copied and here inclosed. Ditto Byres will dispatch one pacquet by y® Fly-boats, and another by way of England. Wee have been as bussie as possible since our arriveall in getting hutts built, wherof we have now 72 for planters, each 12 foot long and 10 foot broad ; and 15 hutts for Officers, 30 foot long and 16 foot broade. Also wee have built 2 store houses, the one 60 foot long and 20 broad ; the other 25 foot long and 20 broade, wherin we have putt our provisions. Wee have likeways putt a rooffe upon and otherways repaired the guard-house, which serves as a church; and now wee are att work with our batteries, and in a few days wee hope they shall be tollerably repaired ; but we cannot propose the makeing carriages for the great gunns, because wee want tools. So we shall be obleidged to take ashoar some of the ships’ gunns, wherof there are already 4 upon the batteries. The list of the men sent by the flyboats to Jamaica is inclosed, being in all So wee have, according to the resolution of the generall meetings of 4th and 5th December, keepid of land and seamen in all 500 ; but how long * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collecticn. 2H 242 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. these shall continue here may be guessed att by the inclosed account of our provisions now remaining, after victualling the men sent off for 20 ds, and of these-great allowance must be made for unsufficiency, particularly of y® beef and flower, both being very ill of their kinds. You'll perceive by y® accounts cleared with the Captains of the hired ships, that 7 hhds. of the flower p. Daling, was throwne out, and a considerable dammage among the other hhds. ; and indeed we cannot understand the loss to be occasioned alto- gether by the ship’s fault, several hhds. being sufficient round about, and yet damnified in the middle; oy"s less damnified, and only spoylled about the heads and sides of y® casks, which is probably occasioned by their lying in a watery place ; but wee cannot imagine how that could be on poarde the ship above the water casks. Wee are apprehensive that y® flower has been made of wheat that has been hott, or att least putt into the hh4s- hott from the milne; but be as it will, none that ever tasted it beleivs it to be more as § flower and } bear meal, and it is very ill dight. Wee could not really (though it lay att our dore) determine y* dammage which Daling should be lyable to, being uncertain in what condition the flower was putt on boarde, and finding to our sad experience that the Com- pany have not been well served in that matter, which perhapps some enquiry att home may discover. Wee could not putt any certain value on the bal- lances due by y® acctts- of provisions cleared with the Captains of the hired ships, and therfor only modelled y™ in the terms of the charter parties, and you have copies of both p. each ship. The Captains did what belonged to them dureing the voyage and since arriveall; but you'll find that Daling’s ship has not béen victualled as she ought to have been, and so wee are diss- appointed as to what was spent of our provisions in the voyage on boarde that ship, which is more imputeable to the Captain’s father y™ himselfe ; meantime ’tis our misfortune. Wee are still expecting some way or other to hear from your H°-, with such orders as you shall think fitt to give us ; and albeit to this day wee have gott no account from any in Scotland, wee shall not be so rash as to impute the same to neglect, but ray" to miscarriage. Only, while wee are doeing what wee can, wee have no doubt of being approven ; and when our provisions are spent so farr that we must abandon our settle- ment wee cannot be blamed, for the ships shall still wait your H°- orders. It is not to be supposed that wee are in condition to pay our Ministers 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 243 their stipends ; and therfor seing their liveing, as well as our oune, is the same with the meanest planters, wee hope you'll consider them att home, so as they may not want what the Colony here should have payed them; and wee must in a particular manner recommend to you Mrs. Dalgleish, relict of Mr. Alext- Dalgleish, who died att sea, on board Duncan’s ship. She is bige with child, and therefor goes for Jamaica. Wee are not in condition so to treate her as her circumstances and good behaviour require; but if James Byres find credit att Jamaica, he will advance her somewhat for defraying charges till she be in condition to returne home ; and wee doubt not of your allowing her a year’s stipend. On 17th ult® we took account of our brandie, and finding only 60 gallons remaining, wee ordered none to be given out except to such as wrought according to the dayly lists of men imployed, and neither Officers, Volunteers, or Saillers are excepted ; but we augmented the dayly allowance of breade meal or flower from $ to # lib., which wee find litle enough albeit we hade brandie. Wee are sensible of y® brandie’s being embezled and misapplyed, but know not how to prove the same so against James Milne, our stewart, as that satisfaction may be gott, for wee have nothing wherby to instruct a charge on him ; but we shall doe our best. We cannot conceive for what end so much thin gray paper, and so many litle blue bonnets were sent here, being intirely useless, and not worth their room in a ship. It cannot be unknowne to your H° that wee have not £50 sterling of vendible goods belonging to the Compa., and therefor our releife (if we gett any) must come from Scotland ey" in provisions or credit, which can be effectuall, ere wee starve for want. Major John Ramsay and Captain Thomas Hamilton desired their libertie to goe for Jamaica, and as for the rest, they will be but litle wanted ; and, without reflection, it may be said that many would have been but litle usefull, though the Colony had bein in a prosperous condition. As to the time the flyboats have been here, wee could not indeed gett them sooner dispatched, the finding hoops for the water casks being a great difficulty. The Captains have been abundantly discreet, and readily obeyed such orders as wee gave them; but albeit wee have made no condi- tion with them for the time wee have stayed here, or for carrying the men to Jamaica; yet they expect your H® will so consider them that they, as well as others, may be encouraged to serve the Company in time comeing. After the list of the men to stay here was finished, Capt. Robert Hay, who 244 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. was one of those mentioned in it, desired his liberty to goe home, which wee granted him ; so he goes to Jamaica p. Duncan’s ship. Albeit the Flyboats hade been sooner clear, yet it has been imyoullill them to have gott out, the wind ever since Christmas haveing bloune briskely att North; but ’tis not above eight dayes since wee got things in readiness. Albeit wee mentioned the lists of those intended for Jamaica as inclosed, yet the same can only come by Flyboats ; so on their arriveall att Jamaica, one coppie shall be forwarded p. Duncan’s ship, and the ofr by way of England. Meantime committing your H®- and this poor Colony to the care and pro- tection of Almighty God, wee continue, with all due respect, Rieut HONOURABLE, Your very humble and obedient Servants, J. LINDSAY. J. BYREs. JAMES GIBSONE. Wi. VErcH. From THE CouNcIL TO THE DiREcTORS.* On boarde the Riseing Sun, in Caledonia Bay, 7th February 1700. Ricut HonovuraBLe, Since writeing what’s on the oy" side (the wind still blowing att N., so that our Flyboats cannot gett out,) there is come into this bay a small brigantine belonging to one Mr. Sarle of Port Royall, who is himselfe on board. He advises that about 20 ds. agoe he came from thence, and has since been on the coast about Portobell, endeavouring to dispose on fourtie Negroes and some dry goods he has on board ; he adds, that he was chassed thence by a Spanish man-of-warr, which came out to take him ; and that he left his hoat and four saillers who were ashoare when he gott chase, and were taken. He was informed that there were four men-of-warr came from Old Spain, tuo about 1/m. or 5/ws. agoe, the one of 60, and the ofr of 40 gunns, and that about 14 dayes agoe the ofr two arrived of 20 gunns each, and there are three more dayly expected from Carthagen to joine them ; and that all seven have orders to come against us p. first, for which purpose, he sayes, all the bakers in Portobell are busie baking bread for the expedition. Mr. Sarle * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 245 sayes, the Jamaica sloop wherein Will. Gellie and Andrew Caldwalls went from this, was seized on arriveall, for what cause he cannot well tell, but that ye gentlemen on boarde were att liberty, and kindly received. Wee referr you to James Byres for further information anent all business att Jamaica. He pairts this day m our new sloop, that he may, if possible, have some agreement made for the planters ere they arrive. We are, as formerly, Rigut HonovuRaABLg, Your very humble and obedient Servants, J. BYREs. WILL. VETCH. JAMES GIBSONE. J. Lrypsay. Tue CovuNncIL To THE Drrectors.* On board the Rising Sun, in Caledonia Bay, the 27th Feby 1700. RieHt HonovuraABLE, Our last was of 13th current, by Mr. Sarle, to Jamaica, the copy whereof is inclosed ; since which, Captain Alext Campbell of Fonabb is returned, who, after three days march over high mountains, arrived at the Spanish camp, which was on the top of a steep mountain near the river S‘* Maria. The Spaniards being informed of his comeing, had fortified themselves with palisadoes round their camp. The said Captain Campbell halted within three pairs of butts of them without being challenged; and after his men had laid aside their baggage, and refreshed themselves, attacqued them, and, after a quarter of an hour’s dispute, possessed himselfe of their camp, and pursued them till the darkness of the night stopped him. The Spaniards, of whose number wee know the particular account, were commanded by Don Michael de Gordoniez, of y® Province of St# Maria. There were taken five prisoners, and a good number killed, whereof, for the thickness of the wood, we cannot give a cer- tain account. There is none of our Officers wounded but Capt. Campbell and Livet Turnbull, who are both wounded in the shoulder, and nine of our men killed and fourteen wounded. Captain Pedro, an Indian, is likewise wounded in the belly. The above named Governour left his trunk, with his * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 246 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. cloaths and papers behind, whereby wee understand him to be a Knight of the Order of St Iago. The forsaids prisoners informe us that the ships from Portobell and Carthagena were to attacque us by sea, when they were to doe so by land; for which end, on 23d current, there appeared eight saill of Spanish ships before the mouth of our harbour, and+anchored att Golden Island, where, on 25th ditto, they were joined by three more, which makes us conclude that y™ land force has been suitable to that by sea. But wee are now in no fear of their attempts by land, Captain Campbell having given them such a totall defeat, being likeways since informed that there were 1500 marching to joine them the day of the action, ‘who, on the account of the defeat, retyred in such confusion, that severals of them drowned in y® water. Wee have putt ourselves here in y¢ best order we can for receiving their fleet, if they attacque us. So wee are hopefull to give you as good ane account of them as you have on oJ side of their land army. This day wee concluded to send Capt. Thomas Hamilton express to you, by way of Jamaica, in a small Jamaica sloop, which saills well. So wee are hopefull she'll escape our enemies. All the provisions, &c., wee have received in the sloop from Barbadoes, are mentioned in the inclosed account ; and, since your Hon" are resolved to maintain this settlement, wee expect that ere now you have ordered for us all sorts of working instruments, provisions, munitions of warr, and all other necessarys ; and what men you send, let them be saillers, souldiers, smiths, and carpenters. Wee would likeways advise, that the most proper ships for your interest here, are small good sailling ships, twixt ten and twentie gunns; likeways that, without negroes, it will be impossible to clear y® ground, or make any progress in planting. Let what credit you send us be on Jamaica, Barbadoes, New England, and New York, these being the proper places where provisions may be got for maintaining y® Colony; for which effect, you must settle correspondents att London, who must advise their freinds in the saids places to answer our draughts for what wee may have occasion for, of which wee are likeways to be advised, that we may know on whom to draw. Wee forgott, in our last, to show you that there arrived here with Capt. Campbell one Captain John Stewart, who served formerly in the English Fleet, whom wee judge capable to doe you and us good service in our 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 247 present circumstances. He has advised us to make a fire-ship of Capt. Daling’s fly-boat, which he himself is to command, if the Spaniards should attacque us in our harbour. Wee have as yet gott no account of Mr. M‘Kye nor Mr. Stewart ; neither have wee hade any returne from Mr. Byres. att Jamaica—and we cannot expect any while our narbour continues blocked up by the Spaniards. Captain Thomas Drummond was desireous to goe in the sloop with Capt. Hamilton, in order to goe home for vindicateing himselfe, which wee thought fitt to grant : so wee have sent with ditto Hamilton what papers wee took from him relating to the former Colony, believing your H®- to be the most proper judges of ane affair of such consequences. This day wee were obleidged to draw on your casheir £60 Sterling, att 5s. 5d. ps. = payl> at 8. ds. to Nathaniel Old, Mt of the sloop wherein Capt. Hamilton goes to Jamaica, the same being agreed for the sloops fraught thither, and other services done here since his arrivall on 18th current. Wee have likeways this day drawne to Captain John Stewart, att 20 ds. 1st and 2¢ bills, for £65 Sterling money, being the value of what provisions he brought in the sloop with him, both which bills you'll cause duely honour. We continue with dutyfull respects, Ricut Hon, Your most humble and obedient Serv‘s, WILL. VETCH. J. Linpsay. ALEX®- CAMPBELL. JAMES GIBSON. : From THE Rey?- ALEXANDER SHIELS.* Rev. Sir, From on board the Rising Sun, in Caledonia Bay. — Since my last, of the date Feby 2, which hath hitherto been stopped by * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. Mr. Shiels, the well-known Author of the ‘* Hynd let Loose,” was one of the four Clergymen appointed by the General Assembly, on 21 July 1699, to “ be sent to the said Colony for settling a Gospel Ministry, and dis- pensing of Gospel Ordinances, and that they might instruct and edifie our countrymen and others who should, from time to time, adjoin themselves to the said Colony; and who also might, through the blessing of God, be useful in propagating the glorious light of the Gospel among the Pagan natives, and contribute to their conversion.”—Borland’s Narrative, p. 36. 248 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. the north winds, which continue naturally here several months, some emer- gents have fallen out, by the holy, wise, and good providence of God, which invite me to add a second line, which I presume will sweeten the first ; and it is my desire, that none may see the first but such as may be acquainted with the contents “of the second ; and I do not question but it will be so. The first will let you see what a deplorable and desperate con- dition we were at when it was written, which continued and encreased untill Feby 11th, when we were, the greater part at least, thinking of nothing but to desert the place : then the tender mercies of the God of our Salvation did remarkably and speedily prevent us, when we were brought very low. That day, being the Sabbath, Capt. Campbell of Fonabb came with a sloop from Barbadoes, loaden with provisions, encouraging us to hope that the Company were resolute to sustain us. On Feby the 13th thereafter, being much alarumed by the Indians from all quarters, that the Spaniards were coming with a great force by land, and their ships from Portobell by sea, to attack us, our Councellours were persuaded to send out a party of two hundred men, under the conduct of the said Captain Campbell of Fonabb, to a place not far from Topacante, where we heard the Spaniards were, who, on Feby the 15th, with the Indians that assisted, fell upon their camp, consisting of 3 or 400 whites and blacks and Indians, fortified with a breast-work, and, though exposed to their ambuscade, did attack them with that vigour that they all run, Their Muestre de Campo was one Michael de Cardonnez, who run with the first. About nine or ten of them only were killed. Some were left wounded, whom our men could not carry along with them. Three prisoners they brought with them. Eight of our men were killed, about 18 wounded, among whom Capt. Campbell himself, on the shoulder, with a bullet, and Lievt Turnbull. Feby 17, a sloop being seen, suspected to be a rogue, we sent off two sloops and a long boat, well mann’d, in pursuit of her, which mett with two great ships, supposed to be Spaniards, cruising on our coast, which they did not own, and needed not fear: so they pursued the sloop within ten or twelve leagues of Carthagena, and drove her into the shoals and rocks of that coast, and so left her. Returning, the long boat fell behind, and was pursued by a long boat of one of the Spanish ships, and forced to run a shoar into Carret Bay, about two leagues to the eastward 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 249 of us, where she was preserved. Feby 21, Capt. Augustin, an Indian, brought us another Spaniard prisoner. From THE Rev?: ALEXANDER SHIELS.* Rev?: Sir, From on board the Rising Sun, in Caledonia Bay. . The Providence that hath hitherto stopt my former letter, of the date Feby 2, by the north winds that naturally blow here several moneths at this time of the year, which hindered our hired transport ships to sail, doth now furnish me with matter for a second letter more pleasing and satisfyeing then the first, God hath remembered us in our low estate, for his mercy endureth for ever. Our sickness did so increase, (above 220 at y® same time in fevers and fluxes) ; and our pitiful rotten provisions were found to be so far exhausted, that we were upon the very point of leaving and losing this Colony, Orders were actually given to provide wood and water with all ex- pedition for carrying us all off, which drove me almost to the brink of despair, and to thinking upon a resolution to stay behind with any body that would yenture, among the Indians. But, in our greatest darkness, light appeared ; for, first on Feby 4, a Brigantin from Jamaica, springing a leak, was forced into the Bay, from which we bought some provisions ; then, Feb. 7, I reckon a second step of our deliverance, the departure of Mr. Byres in one of our sloups for Jamaica, the man who hath hitherto hindered our planting, and opposed all motions for making any attempt upon the Spaniards—yea, asserted and contended, that not only we were unable to make any such attempt, but that it was unlawful for Christians, under the New Testament Dispensation, to make any war; and not only so, but that justice would require that we should make reparation to the Spaniards for the injuries done to them ; and because I mentioned the laufulness of war, he upbraided me to my face with nonsense, contradicting the Gospell, and tempting men to Atheism. A third signal mercy we mett with, was Feb. 11, being the Sabbath, the very next day after Capt. Duncan, by order, made a fruitless essay to go out with his ship to transport, with the other hired ships, a great * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. 21 250 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. number of our men to Jamaica, Capt. Campbel of Falnabbe, with one Capt. Stewart, arrived with a sloup from Barbadoes, loaden with provisions, and bringing us seasonable encouragements from our Company in Scotland, that they are resolute to stand by us and sustain us. The next day, Feby 12, another sloop from Jamaica was driven into our Bay, which gaye advice that Admiral Bembo was gone to Portobel to demand prisuners, and was intending to come hither also, which was very supporting to us, under daily expectations — of Spanish ships from thence to blockade us. The day following, Feb. 13, receiving many repeated alarms from the Indians that the Spaniards were coming by land with forces to attack us, our Councellors (Byres being gone) Z were perswaded to send out a party of 200 men, under the command same Capt. Campbel of Fanabb, who very cheerfully offered himself, thing that principally influenced to this resolution, so surprising, and contrary to all former measures, was the liberating at y's time Capt. Thomas Drum- mond, who hitherto had been a prisoner, and in effect interecommuned (all being discharged to converse with him, tho’ without trial and sentence, and none knew for what) upon I cannot tell what unaccountable surmises and jealousies, of his having a hand in the late plot to seize on the ships and Councellors, for which one Alexander Campbel, a carpenter, was hanged. The only alledged ground of this jealousy was, that at the same time he made a proposal that a party should be sent to attempt the surprise of the mines of Cana or St Maria, which many thought might have been then easily done, and with which many suspected of the plot cordially joined ; therefore they made that a part of the plot ; and accused him of some other things with relation to the former settlement here, which I can give no account of. But this I know, that all that came here before us, that we have seen, give him the character of the most diligent and useful man in the m of their affairs: and this I have seen, that he hath a greater strok with the Indians than all that are here: and this I am perswaded of, that if we had not mett with him at our arrival, we had never settled in this place; B and L. being averse from it, and designing to discourage it from the very first ; G. being indifferent, if he get his pipe and his dram ; only V.* resolved to pro- * Probably these letters represent Balfour, Lindsey, Gibson, and Vetch, whose name is sometimes spelt’ Veitch. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 251 mote it, who also was all along Drummond’s freind, and concurred with his proposal to send men against the Spaniards at first, and took the patrocing of his cause as long as he could conveniently, but with such caution and pru- dence, as to avoid and prevent animosity and faction, which he saw unavoid- able, threatening the speedier dissolution of this interest, if he should insist in the prosecution of that plea, and in opposition to that spait that was run- ning against Drummond. But now Fanabbe, who was Drummond’s comrade and fellow officer in Lorn’s regiment in Flanders, he was set at liberty, and pursued again his former proposal, with which V. joyned, and Campbel, and so all were brought to concur ; and the Indian Captains were very ready to joyn, but, for the shortness of the time, only three of them, Pedro, Augustine, and Brandy, joined them with 60 men. Campbel, with his 200 men and 60 Indians, marched to a place near Topocante, and there, on Feb. 15, fell upon the Spaniards’ camp. They were of Spaniards 100, comanded by their Muestre de Campo, Michael de Cordonnez; and of Malatoes, Creolleos, Negroes, and Indians, about 300 more, fortified with a brestwork, and had a kind of ambus- cade near, but between our men and their camp ; yet our party did attack them with that vigour, that they were made to run in confusion, leaving all their baggage, nine or ten of them dead, several wounded, whom our men were not able to carry off: only three prisoners they brought with them. Light of our men were killed, about 18 wounded, among whom Capt. Campbel himself in the shoulder, and Lievt Turnbull, &c. Some Indians signalized themselves, so that it was thought they merited a reward ; and therefore, a poor naked fellow, that was very brave, was made a Captain, and honoured with a scarlet coat, and hat with tracing, and named Capt. Alexander. The like was done to Capt. Diego’s son, named Capt. Steven. Capt. Pedro being wounded, had one of our Chirurgeons sent to him, and some reward. Feb. 17. A great sloup being seen, suspected to be a rogue, we sent off two sloups and a long boat, well manned, in pursuit of her, which mett with two great ships, supposed to be Spaniards cruising, which we also discovered from our lookout. The ships could do them no hurt ; therefore they pur- sued the sloup within ten or twelve leagues of Carthagena, and drove her into the shoals and rocks of that coast, and it is thought might have taken her, if the men of the litle sloup, which only came up with her, had been either resolute or obedient. Our Boatswain proposed to board her, but the 252 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. men, seeing many men and arms in her, and expecting no plunder, but broken bones, refused. As they returned, our long boat was in hazard, for falling much astern, she was pursued by a long boat of one of the Spanish ships, and forced to run ashoar into Carret Bay, about two leagues to the eastward of us, where she was preserved. Feb. 21. Capt. Augustin, an Indian, brought us another Spaniard prisoner. | XXVI—DOCUMENTS CONNECTED WITH THE CAPITULATION TO THE SPANIARDS. Minute or A GENERAL MEETING OF THE CouUNCIL.* Fort St- Andrew, 18th March 1700. ATT a meeting of the Council, Land and Sea Captains, Capt W™- Veitch, Preses. A motion being made for capitulating on honourable terms with the Spaniards, who have beseiged us both by sea and land :—It being putt to the vote, Capitulate or uot, caryed nemine contradicente Capitulate ; and a draught of a letter being brought before this meeting, it was resolved a drummer should be sent therewith to the Governour of Carthagena, Generall of the Spanish forces. Then the Preses ordered all present to sign thir presents with himself, and adjourned this meeting till further orders. Ro®t. Hay. Wi. Vetcu, Prs- Tuo. Ker. JAMES GIBSON. ALEX®. MONTGOMERIE. J. Linpsay. Co. CAMPBELL. J. Murray. FRAN. BALFOUR. JA. URQUHART. Cu. STEWART. Water Duncan. Da. NEWLANDS. WILLIAM DaALING. LACHLAN BAYNE. J4 MILLER. ‘ * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. Tike Searles" halal ve ~~ —) -« 2 oe! i. ea ete —_ 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 253 CoMMISSION TO CAPTAIN VEITCH.* Wee underscriveing, Councellors of Caledonia, doe hereby empower you, Captain William Veitch, one of our number, to goe to the Spanish Camp, and there, with his Excellencie Don Juan Pimienta, Generall of the army and Governour of Carthagene, to treat, capitulate, and agree upon what articles you shall find most convenient for our leaving our settlement here ; and what you doe herein wee obleidge ourselves to performe. In testimony whereof, &c. INSTRUCTIONS For CapraIn VEITCH.+ I. You are to go to the Spanish Camp with Mr. Mayne, your interpreter. and a drummer. : IJ. Upon your meeting with the General, we do impower you to treat with him according to the following instructions. 1. You are to propose if he will treat with us about leaving the Scots settlement in Caledonia or not. 2. If he accepts to treat, you are to propose a cessation of arms, viz.—that the forces on either side shall approach no nearer to each other for the space of 48 hours at least; and if you can have it prolong’d further you are to endeavour it. 3. You are to assure him from us that in the above specify’d time he shall have the view of the articles on which we design to leave this settlement ; and if he agree to the same, we will immediately exchange hostages for the performance of them on either side,—for all which these shall be your warrant. . In testimony wherof these presents are signed by the Councellours of the Colony, and sealled with the Colony’s seall at Fort St. Andrew, 21 March 1700. * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. } From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. bo Or ~~ THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1699. XXVII.—ACT OF THE COMMISSION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.* Att Edinburgh, the Eight day of December One thousand sex er and Ninety-nine years, post meridiem. The Commissioners appointed be the late General Assembly of ‘this National Church of Scotland, having, upon the seventh day of December current, had presented to them an address from the Council General of the Indian and African Company ; and having heard the same, they judged the matters therein mentioned to be of great weight, and a national concern,— and therefore nominate a Committee of their own number to consider upon and prepare that affair, and bring in an Overture thereanent. Which Com- inittee haying met, did this day bring in their Report and opinion concerning the said affair, the tenor wherof follows.— The Committee finding that it was recommended by the last General Assembly, February 3d 1699, post meridiem, to all Ministers of this Church to pray for the success and prosperity of the trading Company of this Nation to Africa and the Indies, which we are confident has been their constant practise: And whereas the said Companie’s Colony in America has met with severall cross providences of late-——That the Commission doe recom- mend to all Ministers within this National Church to be fervent in prayer to God for averting his wrath, and forgiving the sins of the Nation, which have procured the same, and for sanctifying the dispensation to them who are most concerned, and to the whole land, that they may not give way to fretting and repineing under the rod, but may studie a submissive and quiet frame of spirit, may turn to the Lord with all their hearts, and reform their lives and con- versations, that if it may be the good pleasure of God, he may yet counten- ance and bless the undertaking for the advanceing the trade of the Nation, and for the propagating of the Gospell ; and for this end may be pleased to be gracious to those who went from us, in preserving and prospering them, * From the certified extract in the Miscellaneous Collection, endorsed * Act of the Com- mission of the Jate General Assembly, in answer to the Address of the Council General of the Indian and African Company of Scotland.” 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 255 and in refreshing us with glad tydings from them, and from the Ministers who went with them. And the said Commission of the General Assembly having maturely con- sidered the said Report.and Opinion of the Committee above writen, they did by their vote approve therof, and appoints the Moderator to transmit. copies of the same to all Presbyteries within this National Church. And, lastly, the said Commission did unanimously, and hereby do recommend to the next Generall Assembly to lay down measures for providing the said Company and Colony with more Ministers from time to time, as they shall be applied to for that effect. Signed in name of the said Commission of the General Assembly by Grorce Hamitton, Mod": J. Bannatyne, Clk. Com. XXVIII.—LETTER—LORD BASIL HAMILTON TO THE COURT OF DIRECTORS.* My Lorps aND GENTLEMEN, London, 29th January 1700. By my first of the 28th of Dect: I told you I had then communicate my bussines to y® Secretarys, according to y® Councell-General’s instructions, and delivered their letters, which they promised to lay before the King, and to let me know his Majestie’s return, when I should waite upon him ; and accordingly yesterday the Secretarys came to my Lodgeings, and told me the King said he thought he had given y¢ Company satisfaction alreadie, and was displeas’d they had sent up any such commission by me, who had given no proof of my affection for his government, and so on to this purpose: but y* if I would give in any memoriall relateing to what I came about, he would give an * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection, endorsed “‘ Letter from Lord Basil Hamilton to the Court of Directors, &c., touching the manner of his reception at Court with the Company’s Address,” and addressed, “ To The Right Honble The Court of Directors of ye Company of Scotland tradeing to Africa and ye Indies.” 256 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. answer to it, but could not receive the address from me. This is as near y® heads of what y® Secretarys told me for y® King’s answer as I can remember ; and pressing them to give it me in writting, for y® more exactness, they positively deney’d to doe it. They told me likeways they had given y® King a full account of all I had told them relateing to y* Company, and to my being introduced to His Majestie. In answer to all this I told them I could give in no Memorial in writting, being instructed to deliver y® address to His Majtie myselfe, or to receive his commands from himselfe whom to deliver it to ; and was sorrie his Maitie should put such a mark of his displeasure on one who had lived quietly under his government, neither hade nor needed a remission ; but if this be found for his Matie’s service, y* good of y® countrey, and Company, I shall endeavour to acquiesce in what I have mett with.* This is all I can inform you of now, and waites your further instructions in this affair, which shall be obeyed so far as lyes in y® power of, My Lorps AND GENTLEMEN, Your most humble and obedient Servant, Bast HAMILton.fF London, 2d Jany- 1700. * Sir Walter Scott states that Lord Basil Hamilton thus overcame the difficulties put in the way of approaching the King with the address: “ Taking a public opportunity to approach the King as he was leaving the saloon of audience, he obtruded himself and the petition upon his notice with more bluntness than ceremony. ‘That young man is too bold,’ said William ; but, doing justice to Lord Basil’s motives, he presently added, ‘if a man can be too bold in the cause of his country.’ ”—Tales of a Grandfather, chap. 59. + On 16th January 1700, a letter from the King was read to the Privy Council, in which, while stating that he had refused Lord Basil access to his presence, he desired the Council to intimate to the Company that application would be made to the Spaniards for release of their prisoners according to treaty, “‘and you may also acquaint them that our subjects of that our kingdom shall be allowed the same liberty of trade that others enjoy with the English Plan- tations, and in general you may signify to them our resolution to promote and advance the trade of the kingdom ; and the three frigates they demand having been given by Parliament for guarding the trade of the coasts, we are not resolved to dispose of them till we have the advice of our Parliament.”—Minutes of Privy Council. Conlon 9g a te. i, 4 MSirson veitagd Lg were Pea Lye pon ae putin. Zn, mie at fo Fan yr” 25D op Aatam. Li-Cor ftp pe (o-stlasents aD see 2 lO gp IAs > A ~ 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 257 XXIX.—PRIVATE LETTERS FROM WILLIAM PATERSON. To Patrick MacpowauL.* Mr. Pat. MacDowE 1, Edinburgh, Feby 6th, 1700. I have herein inclosed the letters I intend for the Collony at this time, being three in number, which pray be carefull to deliver ; and when you come in the Collony be sure you keep Company with, and take the advice of, the best men. You know to what a pass we have been brought by a sort of people that we ought at first, but especially now we have been biten, to avoyd. I know you have the happiness to have honest and worthy parents, and you _ have also good principles both of religion and morality,—pray let your con- versation become them ; carry yourself carefuly and prudently in the station you are in, and then the Company both have and will take care that these boystrous mariners shall no more domineer over us. Pray, then, let us not soe much as seem to doe or incline to such things as we have condemned in them. I recommend you to Mr. Shields and Mr. Thomas Drummond. I hope they are two of the best men in the government of the Collony—the others I have not the hon™ soe well to know; in short, God grant you soe to behave as to be an hont to your worthy father, and soe as to gain hont and reputation with the Company, your constituents, and consequently with all honest men, soe as to answer the expectations and wishes of your friends, of which number I reckon myselfe, or should not use this freedome. Soe pray God Almighty to grant you a good and prosperous voyage, and that you may finde our freinds and the Collony well.—I am, Your freind and Servt, WILLM- PATERSONE. I am under a great indisposition by a cold and fevorish humour that dis- ables me from writing as I should, or being at the pains to correct what I write. Pray, therefore, correct and pardon errors. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection, addressed, ‘“‘ For Mr. Patrick Mac- dowall, present at Dundee, bound for Caledonia.” A notice of this gentleman will be found in p. 264. 2K bo or i?) THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. To Carr. Tuomas Drummonp.* Dear Sir, Edinb", Feby 6th, 1700. God grant this may finde byou] with the Rising Sun and other ships in the Company’s Collony. Your industry, your constancy and integrity, ought, and shall, I doubt not, lay lasting obligations upon all true countrymen; and besides that, the great kindness and value you have, in the hardest times and circumstances, had for me, lays me also under those that are particular. I have not forborne to doe you justice in all, and especialy in that your past worthy offer and hazard of yourself from New York, when you left me much indisposed ; but, thanks be to God, I am wonderfully recovered, only a great cold and fevrish humour oppresses me at present, but hope it will be soon over. The Company are, you may be sure, ill satisfy’d with our leaving the Collony, and at those moles of Councellors who had not the forsight enough to provide for the danger before it came upon them. Pray take warning by what has happened, and provide against a time of need; and whatever happens, doe what becomes men of prudence, forcast, and constancy. The Company are exceeding hearty and sensible, and doe seem to make amends for any former neglect or defect, which God grant may be a pledge of their future success. Doe you what you can on your pairt, and let not any thing belonging to the publick nor particular men be spared to suport the Collony, untill you shall be powerfullie employ’d and reinforced. I shall doe what I can here, and hope it shall in the end have the desired success. Pray doe what you can to draw men to you, and keep them with you. I hope in some time all our opposition from England will fall to the ground, that their eyes shall be opened to see their intrest herein. But in the meantime we can expect no good from them as a govermt I hope this nation will be more unanimous in this in any other thing in some ages, [?] and then the weight of that will help to surmount other dificultys. I have wrote to Mr. Alexander Sheilds. Pray converse with him and hear his advice, for you will finde him a man of courage and constancy, and that does not want experience in * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection, addressed, “‘ For Mr, Thomas Drum- mond, one of the Councellors at Caledonia.” 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 259 the world. I hope much from him and you. For the rest, I am not well acquainted with them. Your keeping the possession untill you can be power- fully supply’d from hence is of vast consequence. God Almighty enable you to doe it for his own glory and the good of this poor despised kingdome. Use all maner of means to send us intelligence, and the Company, I hope, will doe the best they can on their part. There happened a dreadfull fire on Saturday the 3d inst., about 10 at night, which has burnt a great many houses between the High Street and the Cowgate, and the whole Parliment Close, the Parliament House, and some adjacent houses only excepted. This is also a great blow, and the secret hand of God. This, with our misfortunate leaving the Collony, and the burning of Jamison’s ship in the Collony, has been no small trouble to me. But yet, I comforte myself, hoping that at last Almighty God will make us glad according to the dayes wherin he has afilicted us ; and in all my troubles it’s no small satisfaction to have lived to give the Company and the world unquestionable proof that I have not had any sinister nor selfish designes in promoting this work ; and that unfeigned integrity has been at the bottom of this. How and what I have sufered in the prosecution therof, God only knows ; and God Almighty lay it no further to their charge who have been the cause. I have alwayes pray’d for this, but must needs confess could never, since my unkind usage, finde the free- dome of spirit I doe now ; and I must needs say, that my concerne of spirit is such that I could not only joyne with those who have done me prejudices, altho’ it had been willingly, but even the greatest enemys I am capable of having, to save my country and secure this Company. But it’s far from this, for I] am perswaded that what has been done to their prejudice has been done ignorantly, as appears by the worthy and kinde reception after so many misfortunes: Pray let me hear from you by all occasions ; and I shall, on my part, endeavour it to you. One thing I had forgot, what relates to the weekly precedency. I think it ridiculous nonsense ; was the intention of mean spirits, raw heads, jealous and presumptuous pates, that had no virtue of their own, tho’ not a litle presumption, which made them so unwilling to beleive it [in] other people. If my advice may therefore be taken, make a monthly president, untill the Company shall from hence take order in that mater, and this will make your proceedings more certaine, stedy, and honor- 260 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. able ; and pray let no man be in the service who has any inferiour station. You know of this has ruined us. Soe being weary, I am . Your real freind and humble Sert, WILL” PATERSONE. Pardon errours. ; To THE REVEREND ALEXANDER SHIELDs.* Hon®? Sir, Edinbr. Feby- 6th, 1700. I trust in the Almighty that this will finde you in good health and pro- sperity in the Company’s Collony ; and altho’ I know both from reason and experience that this mater canot succeed unless it be powerfully supported in its beginning from hence, yet I am glad a person of your worth, principles, and constancy is now at the head of it; and Godd Almighty grant you some good seconds, for it was for want of such that our equipage had no better success then it had. Mr. Thomas James I had a great deal of hope in, but it pleased God to take him away. In short, our Tarpolian Councellours, and raw heads, and undigested thoughts ruined us ; and the difficultys I had met with in Scotland were turned into browbeatings at Caledonia. This dis- composed my minde, broke and discouradged my thoughts ; yet had my advice been taken time enough, we had not left the Collony as, nor when, we did. There was not one of the old Councell' fitt for government ; and things were gone too farr before the new took place. Had our young and mush- room politicians, at the first step, and as long as they had opportunity, given any price for provisions rather then to part with them, they needed not have wanted at last, nor wanted sloops to goe their errands, nor good seasoned men from the Indies to have helpt.us in our need. Witness their parting with Captain Moon at Crabb Island, their difference with Mr. Willmot and Moon about trifles, and humouring their resentments more then the interests and prosperity of. the Collony; their rash sending out of Capt. * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection, addressed, “ For Mr. Alexander Sheilds, Minister of the Gospell at Caledonia.” 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 261 Pinkerton ; their suffering Mitchell and Robins to goe away with their provisions when they might have had them;* their unkindness to all, and horride injustice to some strangers. Their clavering caballs, and dowble dealings were such, that the old Counsell’ never thought fit to allow the natural right of protesting, or entering ones dissent in the Councell. What I have to recomend is, to be kind, [?] just, and obliging to all men, but especially to strangers. Spare nothing to oblige them ; and, if possible,.let noe provisions or necessary’s goe away unbought ; for the Collony not only loses these, but it proves a bad preparative to others, as we have found to our sorrow. Have a care of young musroom politicians, involved and intreaging heads, that club caballs, and pretend one thing and intend another. They are like novices in the University, whose narrow understandings are confounded with their raw, rude, and mistaken conception of things. Have a care of such as have not a due respect for religion, morality, or perhaps good maners.. The Company have dearly sufered by imploying such a sett already ; and if they are not carefull in this mater, a litle leven will endanger the whol lump. It would amaze any man to think with what impudence upstart pretenders will venture to be determined in things of the greatest moment, and generally, the less they understand them, the less they will listen to advice ; and yet, on the other hand, you will finde these browbeating hectors both want courage and pre- sence of minde in cases of real dificulty—which God preserve you from. Let every one speak his minde freely, and enter his protest or dissent when he pleases. Bear with one another’s weaknesses and infirmitys. Above all things, endeavour to cultivate the reverence and respect for God and his religion ; for in this there is great gain, not only in eternity, but even in time. The Company here are very hearty, and omitte nothing that is possible for them to doe in suplying you. Iam not without hope of returning to the Collony, but shall endeavour, in the first place, to get the needfull reinforce- ments and supplys from Europe upon a better foot. We meet still with dis- couragments from England; yet I am not without hope there may yet be a good understanding between the nations in this matter; but the present temper of some in England is like to make this a work of more time then I * See p. 185. 262 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. could wish. Some indisposition, by a coald and feaverish humour, disables me from writing this as I ought, or further enlarging. Soe after service to all frends, I am, Sir, Your ready and obedient Servant, WILLM. PATERSONE. Pray present my service to Captain Thomas Drummond, to whom I have also wrot, and recomended him to you, and in whose industry, courage, and faithfulness, I have had experience. Pray have a care of allowing any that have any subordinat office to be of the Councell, especially commanders, or pretenders at sea, for that has ruined us; and as to any other that may be sent from hence to you, I shall take what care I can, and doubt not but my cares shall succeed ; for the Company are sufficiently certified of, and what _ men should have been, and ought to* XXX.—DESPATCHES AND LETTERS SENT BY THE DIRECTORS TO THE COLONY ON 10 FEBRUARY. Tue Directors To THE COUNCIL OF THE CoLoNy.+ Edinburgh, the 10th of February 1700. RIGHT Ridgtiechee Upon the first report of our Colony’s being come away from Caledonia, 9 we sent an express to stop the sailing of the Rising Sun, and other ships in company, till Mr. Daniel Mackay, one of your number, who was then here, should overtake them with fresh instructions on that unlucky occasion, which was thought absolutely necessary. But the Council on board the Rising Sun having, for reasons best known to themselves, rashly slighted our said advice, * The few remaining words on the edge of the paper are illegible. + From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 263 we wish you may not be at a loss for want of those instructions, and other advices which Mr. Mackay had then along with him. He came up in 24 hours after they were sailed ; but, losing all hopes of overtaking them, we bought’ a small Friggot, The Speedy Return, to ‘carry him, and a cargo of provisions and other necessaries, with suteable advices to be dispatched after our said ships as soon as possible ; and, in the mean time, we sent Mr. Archibald Stewart (who came home along with Mr. Mackay from Caledonia) with advices, and a credit of £2000 Sterling, to New York, where we under- stood the Caledonia and the Unicorn were arrived ; and at the same time we likewise dispatched Captain Alexander Campbell of Fonabb, another of your number, by the way of England, with £1000 Sterling credit on the Leeward Islands, and advices to those gone along with the Rising Sun, as also to those former recruits whiclt sailed in May. Copies of all which advices, and of our commission and instructions to ditto Captain Alexander Campbell and Mr. Archibald Stewart, all dated the 10th of October last, you have herewith inclosed. : We wrote to you of the 24th ditto, and likewise to the Officers of both the said recruits, by Mr. Mackay, above designed, who sail’d from Clyde, as soon as the wind presented fair, in November, with our Company’s proper ship, The Speedy-Return, commanded by Captain John Baillie, laded with provisions and other necessaries for the Colony’s use. We designed likewise to have sent £1000 Sterling credit along with him, but could not procure above £500, which he has. The ship is a good sailing vessell, and we hope may be safe with you by this time, which we shall be heartily glad to hear of, upon many accounts. Mr. Mackay carried along with him a new com- mission and instructions to you, the Council of our Colony, together with particular instructions to himself for his own government during the voyage, and untill it should please God that you all meet together ; copies of which commissions, instructions, and letters, you have likewise, for your better information, herewith inclosed. We wrote to you also of the 31st of October last, by Captain Thomas Lovett, Commander of our Company’s hired ship, The Susanna of Bristol, which sail’d about the same time from Forth, to take in her lading of provisions according to Charter-Party at Belfast, and from thence to sail directly to Port Caledonia ; but, by contrary winds, she has been detained at Orkney near two months, which we are mightily 264 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. concerned at, especially because the provisions were lying ready at Belfast, to be put aboard immediately upon the said ship’s arrivall there. We are in dayly expectation to hear of her being arrivd, and sail’d accordingly. And for your more particilar information, we send you likewise here in- closed copies of ditto letters, zommission, and instructions, and wer above mentioned. This goes by the Company’s hired ship, The Margaret of Dundee,* com- manded by Captain William Fairweather, which, by charter-party, is bound to sail the 15th instant: she carries a lading of provisions, strong liquors, and other necessaries for the Colony’s use, according to the bill of lading and particular invoyce herewith sent ; and for your more certain information, we send you an authentick’d double of the said Fairweather’s charter-party, together with copies of his commission and instructions, and of our instruc- tions to Captain Patrick Mackdowal, who goes in the quality of super-cargo of the said ship until her arrival with you, and then you are to post him in the quality of one of the Overseers of the Colony, being a gentleman lately come from thence, of whose former behaviour we are sufficiently satisfied ; and we have the more regard to him because of his having offered his service to the Company frankly upon this occasion. We have also provisions ready to freight another ship from Clyde (Goa willing) once next month, and shall not be wanting in sending of the needful] supplies according to such advices as we shall have of and from you pias time to time. ; The behaviour of our neighbour nation towards our Company anal Colony makes this nation more deeply than ever engag’d to stand by and support you in all legal ways, and you know, we have lawfull authority a on our side. There is a Nationall Address going now through the kingdom on cde’ account. Last week we received a letter, of the 9th of November, from the Council on board of the Rising Sun, lying off Monserat, together with a postscript, of the 10th ditto, from Mr. James Byres, dated from Plimouth, in the said Island ; and we have abundance of satisfaction thereby, that the men were * See a Journal of the Voyage in a subsequent part of this volume. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 265 all so well recovered, and that so few of them died on the voyage ; and that they were all so unanimously resolved to do as much as in them ly for the good of the Company and the honour of the nation ; and that, tho’ they were uncertain whether our people that went first to Caledonia were come away from thence or not, that yet they were resolved either to knitt on the old thrum, or begin a new web (as Mr. Byres phrases it) : and really we cannot but say that the Council who went on board of the Rising Sun have a great deal to answer for, if any rash or unadvised measures should happen to be taken (as God forbid) through want of those instructions which we designed for them by Mr. Mackay upon the first report we had of the Colony’s de- sertion, they having advice thereof p. express before they sailed from Bute, though they thought not fit to wait for those instructions, as we formerly hinted. We take it not well, that some of the said Council who went on board of the Rising Sun should be at pains to write more particularly about the Com- pany’s and Colony’s concerns to their parents, relations, or friends, than to us, who are in the management, and from whom they have their commission. It looks a little odd in any person entrusted by us to sign the letter of the 9th of November, above mentioned, wherein it is said that they send us a list of the dead by the next occasion, and yet, at the same time, to send that very list to a particular relation, who is not so much as in the least concerned in our Company’s stock. It is full as fit that any such relations should expect news from the Company, as that the Company should be picking up accounts of their own affairs, at second-hand, from any indifferent person living ffifty or sixty miles distant from this place. This looks like too early a beginning to trace the footsteps of some of the old Council, particularly Capt® Pen- nicuick, who, by an over-fondness (not to call it worse) of gratifying his friends, has done the Company and Colony more harm than ever he could be capable of atoning for. You cannot but know that we are environ’d with enemies, which makes a prudent and warry circumspection in all manner of correspondence in writing absolutely necessary, especially in the infancy of such an establishment, as gives cause of umbrage to the most considerable Courts in Europe, because of its situation, and other advantages needless to be here mentioned ; wherefore we thought fit to give this precaution for your future government. 2L 266 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. We think it needless to tell you all the tragical accidents that happen’d to the first Colony after their departure from Caledonia; but, in short, the Endeavour, Pink, sunk at sea, the men being saved by the Caledonia, which arrived at New York in the beginning of August last ; as did also the Unicorn, in great distress, after having lost the best part of her men. They were barbarously treated by the government there, tho’ the generality of the people were inclin’d to be very kind to them—many there and in New England being our country-men, and very zealous for the prosperity of our under- taking. Capt. Thomas Drummond, one of the former Council, having advice at New York of the recruits sent from hence to Caledonia, return’d thither in September last, with a sloop laded with provisions, small arms, iron tools, and other necessaries, with an Officer and thirty odd men, whom we hope you have found there before you. He carried along with him the journals and other papers that may give any light to the measures of the former Council, and other transactions relating to the Colony. The Caledonia came from New York to Clyde in November last, tho’ we should have been much better pleased to have heard of her being returned to Port Caledonia. How- ever, as it is, we shall endeavour to make the best of it, by fitting her out as soon as conveniently may be. The Unicorn was left behind at East Jersey, under the command of Captain John Anderson, her commander, and some few men to assist him. Mr. Paterson is come home along with the Cale- donia ; but, by reason of his indisposition while at New York, and his not having medled with any part of the cargo, he is not able to give us any account thereof; and Capt. Samuel Vetch having thought fit to stay behind at New York, and giving us but shuffling accounts of those matters, we wish that Capt. Thomas Drummond, who was the only other Councellour there, would give us the best light he can into that matter, that we may take measures accordingly. The Saint Andrew, after having lost hér Commander, and many of her men, at sea, and being (as we are informed) pursued by the Barlivento Fleet, put in to Bluefields, on the leeward side of Jamaica, and came from thence to Port-Royal, where all the men belonging to her were most inhumanely treated by the Government, excepting only some few Land-Officers, who we understand took upon them to make hayock of all the goods on board, disposing even of the ship’s stores, furniture, and ammuni- tion, to raise money to feed their excessive wantonness, luxury, and riot, 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 267 while (to our great regret and loss) others, much more deserving, were dying in little better than misery and want; and when the recruits which sail’d from hence in May last, on board of the ships commanded by Captains Jameson and Stark, arriv’d at Caledonia, about the beginning of August last, in perfect health, without the loss of one man during their voyage, and after a full Council held, were firmly resolved to repossess themselves of the settlement, and maintain the same till the arrival there of the Rising Sun, ditto Jameson’s ship, where most of all the provisions and strong liquors were, was unfortunately, by an accident, burnt in the Harbour, which put them under the necessity (it seems) of transporting all the men on board of Stark’s ship to Jamaica, excepting only Lieu's Oliphant, Scott, and Simpson, and volunteers John Graham, Blair, and Macdonald, a carpenter and his wife, and some few men more, who gener- ously petition’d to be left ashoar, to retain possession for you, and to give you advice of what happen’d. We can not have too great a sense of these Gentlemen’s frankness and merit in haying so just and tender a regard to the honour of their countrey, and the interest of our Company and Colony ; and do theréfore specially recommend all of them to particular marks of your favour, and doubt not but you'll give them suteable encouragement upon all occasions. Amongst many others, there was one particular error which the old Council was guilty of, namely, their coming away in the manner they did, without ever calling a Parliament or a General Meeting of the Colony, or consulting their inclinations in the least, but commanding them to a blind and implicite obedience, which is more than they can ever be able to answer for: Wherefore we desire you would constitute a Parliament, whose advice you are to take in important matters; and in the mean time, you are to acquaint the Officers and Planters with the constitutions, and with the few additional ones sent by Mr. Mackay ; and, that all and every person in the Colony may know their duty, advantages, and privileges, and to the end that God may give you a blessing to all your endeavours, we earnestly press and recommend it to you, that you study all reasonable measures to discounte- nance and suppress all manner of riot and immoralities, but especially that you encourage virtue and discourage vice by the example of your own lives, 268 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. and give all the necessary assistance to your Ministers in pe) ~ cipline and good order among your people. igrress Notwithstanding of the proclamations, and the humour that the Gotélid ment of England seems to be in at present against you, we have very good reason to believe that you bave still many friends and well-wishers in the English Plantations, who, maugre all that’s past and gone, will venture fairly to correspond with you, and to carry provisions to you, even upon your bills, if you have no other effects to give them ; tho’ at the same time we are far from relying upon that, and will not fail (God willing) to supply you from hence as aforesaid. One Captain Steel, with a sloop full of provisions, bound for Caledonia, met the Saint Andrew a few days after she separated from the other ships, who would have given them provisions, and offered to go back with them,—which offer they shamefully refused. We earnestly desire that you would inform yourselves particularly, by all means possible, concerning the state of the Saint Andrew, now lying at Port Royal, and that you use all possible endeavours to bring her off from thence to Caledonia Harbour, by sending the Rising Sun’s crew thither for that effect, or by any other way that you'll find most advisable ; with special instructions to such as you send, not to stay in Jamaica longer than absolutely necessary, because of the un- healthiness of the place, and withall to stay as little ashoar as possible. Tho’ you need not doubt of our using our utmost endeavours to supply you with provisions and other necessaries, yet we must entreat you to fall pre- sently to planting, so as you may be in some measure supplied and furnished by your own labour and industry, which was one among the other great faults of your predecessors ; but we hope for far better things from your prudent management, vigilancy and concern for your selves, and the honour and interest of the Company and Colony. And as to the measures you are to observe with the Spaniards who have so unjustly attacked you, we see no reason to alter the former instructions sent along with you to the Colony, and do therefore desire you may regulate your selves by them. There was like- wise a letter written by Principal Dunlop to Mr. Paterson, which was com- municate to most of us, containing important advices. We desire you may peruse the same, and prosecute these advices as circumstances will allow. We also advise you to lodge the provisions ashoar, seing you cannot preserve 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 269 them so well on shipboard, which was said to be the great occasion of their provisions spoiling. We bid you heartily farewell, and are, RicHt HonouRABLe, Your most affectionat freinds and most humble Servants, TWEEDDALE. Jo. ERSKINE. Part. Scort. RuUTHVEN. Francis Scott. Jno. DRuMMOND. Ro. BLackwoop. J. HALDANE. H. CunInGcHAM. JoHN ScHAW. Da. DRuMMoND. Entered according to order p. me, Rov. Mackrenziz, Secy- P.S.—As we have recommended to your special care the bringing off the Saint Andrew from Port-Royal, so we also desire you will make enquiry anent her cargo and stores, how and by whom the same was disposed off ; and take effectual ways to recover the same. As also we entreat you to follow prudent ways to engage and bring off her men, and the men that were in Cap‘s: Jameson and Stark’s ships. We have ordered our Committee to - write more fully and particularly in relation to this subject and other affairs of the Company to Major John Lindsay, as having our special Commission for looking after the affairs of the Company; and therefore desires he may be sent alongst with any others for the better managing this affair. ADDRESS BY THE DIRECTORS TO THE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY.* GENTLEMEN, Edinburgh, the 10th day of February, 1700. We know it must needs have been a great disappointment to youas well as a loss to us, instead of finding, as you expected, a Colony in good condition, well fortified, with houses and other conveniences for your reception and accommodation, or to find only the ruins of a begun settlement, desolate * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection, addressed on the back, “The Hon- ourable the Overseers and remanent Officers of the Scots Colony of Caledonia on the con- tinent of America.” 270 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. and forsaken by those whose glory it would haye been to have perished rather than to have abandon’d it so shamefully and unaccountably as they did ; and its morally certain that had they not come away as they did, the sixth part of them that died at sea, would not in all probability have died there, for recruits of provisiors were coming to them from all hands, notwith- standing the proclamations. ’Tis true they met with several discouragements especially by reason of those proclamations ; and as there were no doubt some villains among them who were, it seems, resolved to be treacherous how- soever, so these proclamations gave them a handle to perpetrate their villanies with the greater impudence. We heartily wish you had by you at this time such a cargo of goods as they had then by them ; but we are not wanting in making all the needfull preparations for supplying you with all necessaries. The nation seems to be more than ever concerned in your welfare, as we have written more particularly to the Council, who, we doubt not, will signify the same to you. We need not tell you how far the honour and interest of the nation is engaged. There is no looking backward. The disagreements and factious jarrings of your predecessors, who were, it seems, void of both religion and morality, will, we hope, be a beacon to you not to split upon the same rock. Unanimity in any enterprise, with the blessing of God, may do wonders. We hope, too, that we need not injoyn you to have all due regard to the orders of the Council. The constitutions of the Colony are such that severals of those who went away with the first equipage in the quality of overseers, were in a few months’ time assumed to be Councellours ; and we hope that your deportment may entitle you to the like advancement in due time, after you have served but a short apprenticeship. We know that there are some among you of good birth, and related to some of the most con- siderable families in the kingdom, the consideration of which ought, we think, to raise in you a generous emulation to exceed each other in all acts of virtue, for the more illustrious that any one’s birth is, the more conspicuous will his failings be if he basely degenerates from these virtues of his ancestors which first distinguished their families from the vulgar. It’s a lasting disgrace to the memories of those officers who went on the first expedition, that even the meanest planters were scandalized at the vitiousness of their lives, many of them living very intemperately and vitiously for many months at the publick charge, whilest the most sober and industrious among them were vigilant in doing their 1700 THE DARIEN PAPERS. * 271 duty. And the want of due care in an equal and moderate distribution of both provisions and liquors, but especially of the latter, was none of the least causes of the misery that ensued. Nor can we, upon serious reflection, wonder if an enterprize of this nature has misgiven in the hands of such as (we have too much reason to believe) neither feared God nor regarded man. However, we hope God in his mercy will give you a juster view of things, and bless you with better success than they had. You have the advantage - of having good Ministers to watch over you ; and we hope you'll give them no occasion, by any undecent behaviour, to repine at their having gone such a voyage, which, we are assured, nothing can make them do so much as the contempt of ordinances ;—we hope for better things of you. So recommend- ing you all to God’s protection and direction, we bid you heartily farewell. and remain, GENTLEMEN, Your affectionate Friends and most humble Servants, _ [The signatures are the same as those of the immediately preceding docu- ment. | Enter’d according to order p. me, Rop. MAcKkENZIE, Secy: ADDRESS—THE DIRECTORS TO THE CLERGYMEN AT THE CoLony.* Rieut REVEREND, Edinb. 10th day of February, 1700. We were in hopes to have heard from you by the first occasion that you had of writing to Scotland from any part of America, and should have been glad to have had your sentiments concerning such occurrences as have happen’d to you during your voyage, as well as concerning the temper and behaviour of the people that are under your charge. We find the loss, and themselves the smart, of the irregular lives that the generality of those who went upon the first expedition led. We have written very fully on this head * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection, prefixed to the original letter of 13th June, subsequently printed. 272 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. both to the Council and Overseers of the Colony severally, to which we refer you for fuller information in that and other particulars. It must needs no doubt be very surprizing to you, instead of friends to receive and weleom you, as you expected, to find Caledonia desolate. We shall not now insist upon the unhappy occasions of it, heing full upon that head to the Council, who can inform you thereof, as will also the bearer, Captain Patrick Mackdowal, who was witness to that tragical scene. However, the honour, interest of religion, and the credit of the nation, is now too far engag’d to think of looking backward, which is the least of our thoughts; and the unkind behaviour of our neighbour nation seems now more than ever to make all degrees of people here more and more concern’d in your welfare and for your support. As we have not been idle since your departure hence, so you may assuredly depend upon it, that we shall constantly persevere in doing our utmost endeavours for all your interest ; and for what concerns you in particular, we shall not only upon all occasions be ready to perform our engagements to you, but also contribute as much as in us lies to make your present stations easy and agreeable to you by strictly injoyning all under your charge to have a due regard to good discipline and order; and we are hopefull that those in authority amongst you will study to discourage vice and encourage piety by the example of their own lives, and not split upon the same rock of riot and immoralities that their predecessors did; for it is not from a multitude of hands that we expect great things so much as from a competent number of men united in interest and affection, and who make a principle of their actings as in the presence of God, wherever they happen to be. There are many good and worthy men of your brethren in the ministry who are zeal- ously and piously affected with the sad disaster of those who went on the first and second expedition, and who were not wanting upon all occasions to contribute as much as belongs to their province to your welfare, and to the _hation’s having a common concern in you, of which possibly some of your brethren in the Assembly may advise you by this occasion, if they have any leasure. But, maugre all the disappointments that we have met with, nothing as yet has, nor nothing we hope shall, discourage us from standing by you to the outmost. So wishing you all health, unity, and prosperity, and that God may give success to that noble and desirable opportunity now in your hands of propagating the Gospel, we bid you heartily farewell, and remain— 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 273 To Masor Joun Linpsay.* Sir, Edinburgh, 10th February 1700. Though we have written at large to the Council, and given them our advice in the several particulars which we thought proper upon this occasion, yet the circumstances you stand in with relation to the Company, from whom you have a particular commission and instructions relative thereto, obliges us to write to your self. If things had stood as we believed they were when we parted with you at Greenock, your business would have been much easier, and we could have been more distinct and positive in our advices to you at this time. We have had many misfortunes both at home and abroad, and there are many causes as- signed for the miscarriage of our Colony. Amongst the rest, we cannot but think that the want of you, or one in your station, has been a considerable loss to us ; and, as we have a particular confidence in you, so we hope that, when you come to understand the rocks and shelves upon which our former Colony split, you'll take such prudent measures as may be means to prevent the like for the future : we have a great deal of confidence in you, and do believe you will not disappoint us. As to your instructions, which you have alongst with you, in the posture our affairs now stand, we can say little more than refer them to your own discretion, desiring you to put them in execution as circumstances will allow. You'll see by our letter to our Council, that one of our greatest concerns is about our ship the Saint Andrew, now lying in Jamaica, and about our men, who by several accidents have been thrown in there. We have desired our Council, after due information, to do what's possible to bring them off, and do judge it absolutely necessary that you make one as from us in that expedition, and that you take special care to in- form your self, both as to the behaviour of our Officers, and as to what of our stores, provisions, and cargo, they disposed of, and what money they got ad- vanced upon them. This is so much the more necessary for us to know, that the Officers who are come to Brittain give us but a very sorry account either * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection, addressed, “ For Major John Lindsay, at Port St. Andrew, in Caledonia.” ° 2M 274 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. of themselves or of what they had in charge. There is not one of these Officers who intrometted with our ships or goods that have dealt by us as they ought to have done. Captain Maclean, who had the command, and consequently the charge of our ship and goods after the death of Captains Pennicuik and Campbell, gives in such accounts to friends entrusted at Lon- don as they know not what to make of; and officers who come along with him give him a very disadvantageous character. We are the more inclined to believe this, that we find he kept up our business, and made a mistery and a secret of it to such as had served us like gentlemen, while he imployed such as he must necessarly have knowen to be rogues, an instance of which is his giving Paton the charge of the St. Andvew. This Paton was master of the sloop which was sent over to Jamaica from our Colony in May last for pro- visions. In his return, he mett our ships at sea, and was commanded to attend the Unicorn then in great distress ; but was so far from doing it that he run away with said sloop, and when he came to Jamaica disposed of her and cargo, and applyed the money got for them to his own use and such as were with him. That you may understand this affair the better, we send you the declaration of Abraham Loudon, who acted as supercargo in said sloop ; which declaration we desire you may lay before the Council, who will, we hope, use prudence in all this affair ; and take no notice of anything they know either as to persons or tne till they find it in their power to bring them to a just account. We have been earnest with our Council ta recommend peace and unity to all the members of the Colony, to give instructions to every one to observe discipline and order, and particularly to give due obedience in following the admonitions and advices of the Ministers. We do earnestly recommend it to you to be instrumental in all these things. This, by order of the Court of Directors, is from, _ Sm, Your affectionat friends and humble servants, J. HALDANE. Jno. DRUMMOND. Par. Scorr. Da. DrumMonp. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 27 Or DECLARATION ACCOMPANYING THE ABOVE LETTER.* At a Court of the Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, holden at Edinburgh the 18th day of January, 1700. Lievt. Abraham Loudon being sent for from the Town-guard and called in, he was interrogated by the President concerning the sloop and cargo com- manded by Henry Paton, and which was disposed of in Jamaica,—the said Lievt. Abraham Loudon declared that he knew Mr. Paton had got orders to wait upon the Company’s ship the Unicorn, she being in great distress’ at sea, but that he does not remember that he saw the orders. He says he heard Paton swear and promise to Captain Anderson that he would not part from the Unicorn. He says he was not aboard the Unicorn after the said orders were given. He says himself and three landmen more were on board the sloop, when Paton did promise and swear as aforesaid, and went away with four seamen and ditto Paton to Jamaica. He says he put his trunk with his linens aboard the Unicorn, with intention to stay, but says he fell sick, and went out of the Unicorn into the sloop with design to go aboard the St. Andrew, and acquainted Mr. Paterson and Captain Anderson therewith, and that none of them said anything against it ; but that afterwards Captain Anderson would not allow him to go on board of the St. Andrew, where the company was that he belonged to, but would have him stay on board of the sloop ; but that afterward Captain Anderson desiring him to go on board of the Unicorn, Mr. Paton himself, and all on board of the sloop, went away without order to Jamaica, where all unanimously agreed to dispose of ship and cargo, and that the produce should be divided amongst them. He got but thirty pounds sterling for his share, besides some provisions. He does not think that the seamen got above five pounds a-piece, but that Paton got much more than he; only one seaman got nine pounds; the landmen got nothing but their arms. Four three-pounders were sold for twelve pounds sterling, to the best of his memory. Does not remember the value of the * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. The letter from Paton (who signs Patton) is given above, p. 160. 276 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. goods or sloop, but that the sloop was sold, and that she was afterwards burnt, but whether by the man that bought her, or Paton, or any other, he could not tell, but believes it was by the man that bought her, because he durst not own her. He says that although he had been against going to Jamaica, it would have been rejected by the rest, he having, as he ei no charge either of sloop or cargo. a (Ste subscribitur) ABRAHAM Loupon.. aiff Part. Scorr, L.P.C.D.. Mr. Paterson, who is now here, was called, when Lieutenant Loudon aserted that he spok to him of leaving the Unicorn, and was positive that Loudon never spok to him on that subject. We have manie other reasons which induce us to believe that Loudon is disingenuous. Wee fynd by the account of goods put aboard said sloop, that their value was two hundred and fiftie pounds sterling. This, by order, is signifyed to you by J. HALDANE. To CapTaIn JAMES GIBSON.* Edinburgh, the 10th of February 1700. We were glad to find by yours of the 9th of November last from Montserat, in conjunction with the othor Councellours then on board the ship under your command, that you had so prosperous a voyage thither, that your men were all in good heart, and that you had no view of any thing that might obstruct your getting safe in a short time thereafter to Caledonia, where we hope this may find you, and those that went along with you, in good health, hearty and unanimous in re-establishing that settlement, which was so shamefully aband- on’d by your predecessors, and where it would have been more honourable for them to have died than to have come away as they did. We have wrote our minds fully to the Council, who will (no doubt) communicate the same to you, fipon whose advice and assistance in every thing we depend full as much as * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. | 277 if you were one of their number, and would have been so but for the unan- swerable evil consequences of the Commanders of our first ships unaccount- able conduct and intolerable insolence in their double capacities : Wherefore the Council-General thought fit to come to a positive resolution that from henceforward none of the Council should be at the same time in another capacity ; and considering of what concern the preservation of our ship the Rising Sun, under your command, is, and that none will be so carefull to look after her as your self, we thought it would not be acceptable even to your self to quite her for being one in the Council. We have written to the Council and to Major John Lindsay severally about the Saint Andrew, now lying at Port Royal in Jamaica, to which we referr you for information, expecting your hearty concurrence in any thing that will be found advisable and practicable on that head—So wishing you all safety and success, we remain, . Sir, Your assured friends and humble Servants, JOHN ScHAw. FRANCIS Scort. PANMURE. . J. HALDANE. Rop. MAcKkENzIzE, Secy- To CapTaIn JAMES MILLER.* Sir, Edinburgh, 10th February 1700. We have yours of the 9th of November last from Montserat, which is very acceptable to us. We are glad that those aboard of our ship under your command were in so good a state of health as you write of, and hope God will continue the same to you all; and that this will find you safe in Caledonia. We have seen so much of your care and diligence in looking after your charge before you set sail from Clyde, and had such characters of you, that we doubt nothing of your carefull discharge of the trust reposed in * From a copy ees to an original ee from the Directors to Captain Miller of 13th June, “eget printed. 278 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. you by the Company. We have got very surprizing accounts of those who went before you; and no doubt it must needs be a great disappointment to all of you, as well as a vast loss to us, to find a desolate and abandoned settlement, instead of friends and accommodations for your reception when you come there. We wrote ftdly to the Council, to whom we referr you for particulars. Only, in general, all of you may depend upon it that nothing will discourage us from standing by and supplying you to the last. We are con- fident that you'll always be ready to execute whatever will be given you in charge to do; and, on the other hand, you may rely on all suteable encour- agement from our Company, by whose order this is from, &c. XXXIL—MR. HALDANE’S LETTER TO THE COLONY.* To the Honourable Mr. Danre~n M‘Kay, and, in his absence, to Mr. ALEXANDER HamIuton, both CouncELLors of the Scots CoLontE of CALEDONIA, in America. Deak Sir, Tho’ I be verie uncertain how or where this may fynd you, yett still I am resolved to let no occasion slip without wreating. It is true, this uncertainty will keep me from being particular in manie things, yett ther being a great manie generall ones of which the knowledge may neather be uprofitable nor unpleasant to you, I doe therfor resolve to tell you as near as I can what has hapned amongst us since your departure from Clyd. You know that upon the news of our Colonie’s desertion, wee addressed the King that his Majestie would be pleased to tak of the force of the proclamations; and in regard our Companie by them had gott such a blow, wee humbly beged his Majesty would be pleased to alow our parliment to sitt with all convenient spied, that we might have their advyce and concurance to support us for the . * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 279 future.. This, you may judge, all our Statsmen would be against, asearting that it was impudent in subjects to demand such a thing of a King ; but that it was downright efronterie in a Companie of Merchants to pretend to it. Wee pretended wee had law by the clame of right on our syd, and that the occasion was so extraordinarie that wee would venture cost what it would ; and accordingly we transmitted said Adress to our Secretars by them to be presented to the King, who in a few days gave us an answer that he was sorie for the loss the nation had sustained, to whom he would give as much priviledge of trade in America as ever they had ; and withall told us that when the good of the nation requyred a parliment, wee should have one. Tho’ this generall gave us not great satisfaction, yett wee printed it and made the best use of it wee could; for as soon as it was knowen severall worthie patriots framed ane adress as from the nation, in which they lay the case of it befor his Majestie ; and after recapitulating the concessions his Majestie was pleased to give, they humbly beg leave to tell his Majestie that the good of the nation never more requyred a parliment:-then now, and therfor they humbly beg it may sit with all convenient speed. This address was first subscribed by 30 or 40 of our best friends, and these of the first quality ; upon which those of the Goverment wrot up to Court, giving a hott alarum, which produced a letter to the Privie Councel from the King, desyr- ing them to put a stop to it if possible in the intrim. The Adress was sub- scribed by several Lords of the Session, by the whole Facultie of Advocats, by the Merchants, and whole Incorporations in this place ; by both the Shyrs of Lothian, and by the Shyr of Stirling. This put the Councell to a stand, and made them reason very differentlie. They found the thing was law, and was lyk to be universal. So all the Lords of Session and Lauiers wer not for medling with it. However the Court partie caried by a vott that the King’s Letter should be published by way of proclamation. These Lords and Lauiers above so far testifyed their disent that they withdrew from the Councel, and would not subscrib the order for the proclamation, and conse- quently it had no effect ; for now the Adress has gon throw the whole King- dom, and is to be sent to London in a few days, and wee hop will produce verie good efects. As to the Companie, our busines has been mostly to endevor the getting in of money, that we might be in a capacity of sending you necessary suplies of 280 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. which the ship with which this coms is one you know. Lovit’s ship sailed from this befor y¢ rest, and wee are now making all possible preparations to send ane other from Clyd, having alreadie bought the bief and whyt. So much for provisions. I now again turn to the politicks. The Companie, fynding it absolutly necessarie to hav2 one att London in this critick junctur, and that we had not as yet made anie Adress to his Majestie in behalf of our pri- soners detained at Carthagena, caled a General Councel, and framed ane Adress in their favours, of which Adress Lord Basill Hamilton was prevealed with to be the carier, and accordingly went up; but when he came, the King refused to see him, upon the account he had been formerly att London, and did not come to kiss his hands. Lord Basill had instructions to comuni- cate what he had in charge to the Secretars, who told the King, that besyd our former demand of taking of the force of the proclamations, we further beged his Majestie to redemand our prisoners, and to have the thrie Scots Frigots built for the securing our trade, to suport us in our present exigent. His Majestie, in answer to this, wrote first to the Chancelor, desyring him to acquant the Companie, that tho’ he had, for reasons known to himself, refused to see Lord Basill, yett he would think of our demands’; and accordingly, in a post or two, he wrot to his Council, desyring them to acquaint us with his resolutions, of giving us as much libertie of trade in America as other nations had with England ; that he would redemand the prisoners in the tearms of the treaties ; and that, in regard the Parliment of Scotland had given him the ships, he would only dispose of them by ther consent. So stands matters with Lord Basill, who, tho’ he has not seen the King, is still doing us verie good service att London, with the help of your good friend, M‘Kenzie, who is still there ; for our busines having made such a noyse in the world, was att last taken notice of by the English Parliment : they have had it severall tymes before them. The House of Comons have done nothing in it, but caused burn a pamphlet caled the Inquyrie,* a copie of which ye “ “ An Enquiry into the Causes of.the Miscarriage of the Scots Colony at Darien,” Glasgow, 1700. It was written in answer to “ A Defence of the Scots Abdicating Darien,” attributed to Walter Herries, Surgeon, which, along with other pamphlets on the English side, was ordered by the Scots Parliament to be burned, as “blasphemous, scandalous, and calumnious.”—Act Parl. x. 211. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 281 have sent, with several other pamphlets, by Mr. M‘Kenzie. The House of Lords were to be on our busines again on Thursday last. We knew not what the event would be when I began to wreat this; but just now wee have ane account that the House of Lords, after having sitten on it the whole day, the Court partie, who are always strongest in that House, were . not able to bring it to a vot befor ten att night, and then it caried, by six votts, that the King should have the thanks of that House for what he had don as to the proclamations against you, and that he should be adressed to continue, and renew them; and all this, because your settlement is preju- dicial to the English plantations in America. Our General Assembly is now sitting; and because it had been reported in England that our countrie was in a bad humour, it was thought fitt by the Court to send doun my Lord Seafield to be Commissioner, and Mr. Carstairs to be his Governor. The Assemblie has now sitten these ten days past, and don litle save the transplanting of some Ministers from one place to ane other. Having now given you att least a short hint of everie thing that has past amongst us, I shall now only add, that we are more and more confirmed in our resolution of standing by you, and shall do what is possible for us. It’s now more then ever necessarie for you to do for your selves. Ye know it was the eror of the former Colonie, that they deffered too long to fall in hands with their nighbours, the Spaniards, whyll at the same tym they oun, that if they had begun sooner, and why] their men was in health, they might have gott a deall of Indian corn, and other fresh provisions. They lykways tell, that one of the great reasons that our Colonie succeeded so ill, was their not giving encouradgment anuff to such as Alison, Coxon, and others, and their absolutly denying to folow their missurs. It is true, att that tym they were under circumstances that oblydged them to act otherways then I think youl fynd it your intrest to doe, now that England has declared so much against you. A word to a wyse man is anufe. I have made it my business as much as I could to inquyr in the reasons of our last disertion ; and all I can make of it is, that tho’ the proclamations did hurt, yet the divi- sions and animosities amongst themselves was the greatest reason of it. Some aleadges lykways, and I belive ther may be mor in it then it’s now fitt for me to wreat, that the money which was made of particular cargos, and what was fished up of the French wrack, was the greatest reason of all, and 2N 282 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. the greatest inducement some people had to be uneasie till they came home to Scotland. Amongst other questions I asked, I frequently had characters given me of your late Councel and Councelors. It’s needless for me to trouble you with what they said of others, and shall only tell you, that the amount of all they said of ’ was, that you was sometyms pasionat and huffie. I temper anufe, and I wreat this that you may have occasion. Of all the people went in the expedition, ther is not one I should rather wish you to be with then Mr. Alexander Hamilton ; and you see by my * this on the back to him in your absence, that in your absence I only desing this for him. I give my humble dewtie and best wishes to all my good friends and countrie men wit you, and particularly to all your Councelors, and after them to the cae amongst whom I shall only name Lord Mungo Murray. Pray you assist him with your good advice. I know youl be kynd to all my friends ; and I doe assure you, if it ly in my power, I'l serve you and yours. This comes by Mr. Pat. M‘Dougall. He has caried himself verie handsomly since he came here, which made us pitch upon him to be supercargo in this ship. Ther is a ’ young man, a relation of his, in whom he seems to have a mightie concern. ~ He laid it upon me to recomend him to you. I have forgott his name; but when he adreses you in his behalf, I hope you’l mynd him. The post goes ; so I am oblidged to end this scrible, with giving you my best wishes, and assuring you that I am Your verie affectionate friend, and faithful humble servant, J. HALDANE. Edr, 13th Feby 1700. I had almost forgot to recommend it to you, and by you to the Colonie, that they would doe whats possible for the relief of our poor prisoners at Carthagena, and that youl hay a special regard to Harie Areskin and Colin Campbell. Wee had letters last day from Pinkerton, Maloch, and Graham. They are now come to Spain. * Words torn away with the seal. SS. ee 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 283 XXXIL—REPORT OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE NATIONAL ADDRESS TO THE KING.* My Lorns anD GENTLEMEN, Since it was principaly upon the Company’s account that those who sign’d the National Address did enter unto these measures, and that most of your number, as you are Directors of the Company,:so you are subscribers, and were present with some of us before we left Scotland, where it was concerted, that we should give accounts of what occurr’d to us upon this occasion ; now, therefore, take the accounts which follows :—Tuo days after our arrival in this place, wee waited on the Secretaries and acquainted them with the design of our comming up, and desyr’d that they would informe themselves from his Majestie if he would receave the Address, and when he would assigne us a diet for presenting it. They promised to doe so; and accord- ingly, next morning, they told us that they had been with his Majestie, who was satisfied to receave the Address, and appointed us to attend him at Kensingtone yesterday afternoon, whither accordingly we went, and were introduced by the Secretaries of State to the King in his bed-chamber, attended by a few of his own servants. Wee were first admitted to kiss his Majestie’s hand ; and then the Marquess of Tweeddale told the King that wee were come to present, in all humble manner, a petition from his Majestie’s subjects of Scotland, in a matter which they conceaved to be of the greatest importance, and for the honor and interest of his Majestie and that of his kingdome ; and hop’d his Majestie would be graciously pleas’d to receave it: to which the King replied, he would; and thereupon the Marquess presented him the Address upon the knee, his Majestie keeping it for some time in his hand. The Marquess ask’d his Majestie if he would be pleas’d to hear it read. He said he was satisfied ; and thereupon redelivered it to the Marquess, who gave it to St John Home to read; which being done, * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. The Address was presented at Kensington on 25th March. It will be found in the “ Full and Exact Collection,” p. 107. It desired his Majesty to call a Parliament for the consideration of the position of the Company. . 284 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. the King spoke to the Marquess in words to this purpose :—My Lord, I suppose you know that I have ordered thesitting of the Parliament to be on the 15th May, and it cannot possibly meet sooner ; and therefore I think you might have spar’d this trouble. Upon which the King, turning from where the Marquess stood, to goe out, St John Home, who stood in the way he was to goe, told the King, that he hop’d his Majestie would look upon the Address not only as petitioning for a Parliament, but likways as wit- nessing the sentiments and concern of the nation for the Indian and African Company. To which the King reply’d—That would be known in Parliament. His Majestie was then goeing for Hampton Court, and wee attended him to his coach. This is what was thought fitt to be transmitted to you by, My Lorps anD GENTLEMEN, * . Your most humble Servants, TWEEDDALE. Patrick Moray. J. HALDANE. JoHN Home. — London, 26th March 1700. : XXXIII—PROCLAMATION BY THE COUNCIL-GENERAL. By Tue Councit-GENERAL of the Company of ScorLanpD Trading to Arrica and the InprIEs—A ProcLAMATION.* The Council-General of the said Company taking into their most serious consideration of what fatal and dangerous consequence their people’s late rash and unadvised manner of coming away from Caledonia in America has proved not only to the Company and their said Colony of Caledonia, but also to this nation in general, especially considering the universal inclination of the people of this kingdom to maintain and support the same: Therefore, to prevent the like unhappy resolution for the future, the said Council-General do hereby publish and declare, that it shall be lawfull to any person or per- * From a certified copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 285 sons of what degree or quality soever, inhabiting the said Settlement of Caledonia, not only to protest against, but also to disobey and oppose any such resolution ; and that it shall be death either publickly or privatly to move, deliberate, or reason upon any desertion or surrender of the said Settlement of Caledonia, without special order from the said Council-General for that effect. And for the more effectual execution hereof, the Council of Caledonia is hereby ordered and required to cause their proper Officers make publick intimation of the premisses, in a solemn manner, at the port and harbour of Caledonia, and other most noted places of the said Settlement, as they shall be answerable ; to the end that none may pretend ignorance. Given at the Company’s house in Edinburgh, the 3d day of June 1700. In testimony “whereof, these presents are sealed with the Company’s seal, and signed by the Company’s Secretary, by order and in presence of the said Council-General, place, day, month, and year of God abovewritten. By order of the said Council-General, Rop. Mackgrnziz, Secry- XXXIV.—LETTERS AND DESPATCHES FROM THE DIRECTORS TO THE COUNCIL OF THE COLONY, AND OTHERS— Marcu ro JUNE, 1700. Tur DIRECTORS TO THE COUNCIL OF THE CoLONY.* Ricut HonovuRaBLg, Edinburgh, the 16th of March 1700. We had a letter from such of your number as were aboard of the Rising | Sun, bearing date at Montserate the 9th of November last, with a postscript of the 10th ditto from Mr. James Byres: we had another short line from Captain Thomas Drummond, bearing date at St. Thomas the 28th of October, both advising their intentions of setting forward to Caledonia as soon as * From.the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 286 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. possible. We hope this may find you all there in good condition, and more resolute to withstand the first puff of the designs and practices of the enemies of our Company and Colony than your predecessors have been, ¥ shamefull abandoning of that place must for ever remain a blot upon ‘the memories of such as had any hand in it. pais Upon the first news we had of it, we dispatched Mr. Archibald Stewart on the 10th of October last to New York, with £2000 sterling credit for of provisions, &c.; and at the same time we dispatched Capt. Alone Campbell of Fonabb, one of your number, in quest of you by the Leeward — Islands, with £1000 sterling more credit. On the 24th ditto, we dispatched a 4 Mr. Daniel Mackay, another of your number, on board of one of our own pany’s ships, freighted with provisions from Clyde and £500 sterling, on Leeward Islands. On the 30th ditto, we wrote to you by another veal - a a eh Ny which we dispatched then for Ireland to take in a loadning of m8 there for the Colony. We wrote you likewise on the 10th ultimo by ae ie i which we dispatched then from Dundee full of provisions, strong liquors, ; other necessaries for Caledonia, and shall write to you further by another _ yessell, which we intend shall (God willing) sail from Clyde once next month with provisions and other necessaries for Caledonia, all upon our Company's — accot. By which you may see we have not been idle since your departure. The whole body of the nation seems every day more and more concern’d in ; i. your interest ; for the chief of them have sent a national address bade vehi a Maty for allowing the Parliament to meet as soon as possible. For whenever — they meet, it.is not question’d but they will give a parliamentary 4 carrying on our undertaking. The Marquess of Tweeddall and other Mem- bers of Parliament have gone up with it ; and as money comes in we intend — to send you further supplies by the Caledonia and a tender or two. We referr you to our particular instructions by our former advices above mention’d. So wishing you all unity in your measures, and seis in your undertak- ings, we remain, Ricut HoNnourRaBLE, : Your affectionate friends and most humble Servants, PANMURE. Da. Drummonp. Francis Scort. JO. JAMESONE. Pat. Scort. ._ Jno DRuMMOND. ALEX®.- Dunpas. Ro. BLackwoop. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 287 Tur DirREcTORS TO A PARTY UNKNOWN IN New York.* Edinburgh, the of March, 1700. “We have yours of the: 8th of October last by our Company’s Ship, the Caledonia, as also your others of the 15th and 28th of November by the way of England ; and Sir Francis Scott communicated to us yours of the 15th of November to himself, which is all that we have heard from you to any of our number. The whole nation, as well as we, have too much reason to be moved at the unaccountable treatment which we and our Colony have met with in the prosecution of such an honest and lawfull undertaking as that of our endeavours in setling a Plantation in Caledonia, on the Continent of America ; but it must needs make it still the more unsupportable for us to find several of those employed by ourselves on our first expedition to have made use of those occasions furnished by the enemies of our designs as a handle for so shamefull an abandoning of the settlement, and afterwards for mis-applying and embezling those goods that were intended for our Colony’s support and relief, till we could send them a further relief from home, which is well known came seasonably enough there, if the majority amongst you had either patience, courage, or resolution to have staid so long as the time in which you might have reasonably expected an answer to your own letters ; and to say that those goods were damnified, and so extravagantly overrated as you suggest, can not at all weigh with us, when we consider that they were bought by understanding merchants, who have not only been for a course of years personal traders in the West Indies, but who still trade thither to this hour, and whose integrity we have not as yet had any reason to doubt: and we cannot but think it very strange that you, who, in your letters above mentioned, professes yourself wholly ignorant in those matters, should, with the same breath, brand men of unquestionable reputation, and whom at the same time you ought to consider as your masters, with having charged cent. per cent. forsooth upon those goods, and to say that the cargo was a manifest cheat. These are odd words: we are sure, if you should mention William Arbuckle’s name (who was chiefly concerned in buying * From a scroll in the Miscellaneous Collection. It was probably addressed to Capiain Samuel Veitch. See above, pp. 156, 197, and 210. 288 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. that cargo,) none in the West Indies, that know him, will believe that he will be concerned in any thing like a cheat. However, we shall wave any further reflection upon it, recommending it to you to be more sparing of such censures for the future, at least till you learn to be more skilfull in merchandizing. You tell us it was thought convenient you should stay behind at New York. We never as yet could learn by whom it was thought convenient but by yourself. Mr. Paterson, Capt. Drummond, and all the rest that came home in the Caledonia, declare they know nothing of it. To look after the Unicorn it could not be, for we suppose you profess no skill in what belongs to shipping ; and as to the disposal of those goods, we would have look’d upon it as much better service to the Company, if you had left them all in the merchants’ hands, with orders to sell them to the best advan- tage, allowing them the ordinary commission for their care and trouble ; in which case, men of any reputation would have thought themselves oblig’d, as merchants and factors, to make a faithfull account of their intromissions, and would have been likewise under the check of other indifferent persons, if they should be found tripping: but now, as you have managed matters, they are not tied to any rules of honour or honesty with the Company, as having those goods at such prices as you and they agree for ; for a bargain is a bargain, be it never so much to the prejudice of one party ; nor can any man blame them to take a penniworth when they can meet with it. Yet really when you consider that you are no merchant, and know no more of the sufficiency or value of those goods but what those merchants (no doubt cunning enough) please to tell you, you think it but an unadvised act in you to venture upon including such positive agreements with them, especially so much to the Company’s loss ; and considering how the goods were bought here, and by whom, and what profit is Commonly made of such in the West Indies, considering the interest of money, and the difference between money in New York and money in Scotland, and that even the very best of those goods should be sold at a rebate of the prime cost, is very unaccountable ; and we wish that no more than mere ignorance and unadvisedness may be the occasion of it. Capt. Drummond says, that the gunns on which you charge 20 per cent. rebate were never so much as taken out of the boxes where they were first pack’t : so that certainly they could not be damnified. You send us the abbreviat of an imperfect account for our information. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 289 Really, at such a distance, we think the more particular an account is, the clearer view can be had of it. You tell us all your depursements ; but, first of all, you should send a compleat inventory of all the several quantities and qualities of goods that you had from on board the Caledonia and Unicorn, to make once an entire charge, and then an account of such of these as were disposed of, to whom, and at what rates ; and last of all, an account of your disbursements, to whom, for what use, and at what times; and all these should be as particular as possible, for nothing can be made too plain at such a distance ; nor should you grudge the sending us two or three sheets of more paper, rather than to perplex an account, by crowding many particulars into one article ; though, to send a short abstract or abridgement along with such a particular account, is what would be very proper. (Memd. the prime cost of the goods here.) We have written to Capt. Anderson to take the best care he can of the Unicorn till he hear further from us, and that you would give him as much money as might serve his occasions there upon account of his pay, which we desire you may do, taking his receipt accordingly. The repeated misfortunes of the Company in several respects has put us upon a necessity of altering our measures, and waving several things to be done at this time which we were inclined to do, because the money that we designed for executing those matters must necessarily be apply’d another way ; but we expect a Parliamentary supply, if once the Parliament met, for the whole body of the nation seems to be more and more concerned in this undertaking every day. The Marquess of Tweeddale and several Members of Parliament are gone up with an Address to his Majesty for the Parliament’s meeting, and ‘tis according as money comes in that we must regulate ourselves. In the meantime, our chief care now is, to send provisions, strong liquors, and other necessaries, to those that went along with the Riseing Sun, who, we question not, are repossessed of Caledonia long before now. The last direct advices we had from them were dated at Montserat, the 9th of November last. They were then very hearty and well, resolved to sett forward the next day for Caledonia. We had a letter from Capt. Thomas Drummond, at St Thomas, the 28th of October. He was resolved to proceed likewise on his voyage to Caledonia ; so that we reckon they mett very seasonably together. Mr. Mackay sail’d with another ship, full of 20 290 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700 provisions, from Clyde in November last,. There is another ship freighted, full of provisions, sailed from Dundee for the Colony. There is a third from Ireland, and a fourth a making ready from Clyde, all upon the Company's account. We sent £2000 Ster! credit to New York, by Arch Stewart, in October last, and £150 Ster! credit to the Leeward Islands at the same time ; and, as money comes in, we intend to refitt out the Caledonia with a tender or two. Tue DIREcTORS TO THE CoUNCIL oF THE CoLony.* Rigut HonovuRABLE, Edinburgh, the 10th of May, 1700. ‘ We wrote to you by the same vessell, commanded by Captain Thomas Lovet, on the 31st of October last, to which referrs ; at which time we were — in hopes that he would perform his voyage to Caledonia and be return’d before now ; but Providence ordering it otherwise, we referr you to himself for an account of the occasion of his stop, which he knows was none of our fault. We wrote to you of the 10th of October last by Capt. Alexander Campbell of Fonabb, one of your number, who parted from Barbados for Caledonia on the 24th of January last, with a sloop full of provisions. We wrote to you on the 20th of September by Mr. Daniel Mackay, another of your number, who parted from Clyde the latter end of November last, with another ship full of provisions for Caledonia, both which ships belong to the Com- pany, and hope are safely arrived with you long before now. We sent Mr. Archibald Stewart with a credit of £2000 sterling to New York. He arrived there the beginning of February last, and was to have sailed from thence about the end of that month with a sloop full of provisions for Caledonia. We have advice at the same time that Mr. John Borland, John Campbell, John Maxwell, and other friends in New England, have sent three or four vessells more with provisions for Caledonia. We wrote to you further on the 10th of February last, by a vessell that. sail’d at Dundie within some few _ daies thereafter with provisions for Caledonia. We wrote at the same time severally to the Ministers, the Land and Sea Officers, Capt. Gibson, Major Lindsay, and Capt. Miller, to all which we referr you, and would have sent * From a copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. ae, eg ee a ee, ee he ST 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 291 copies Of all these by this vessell, were it not that we are surprized with the shortness of our advertisement, and that we are otherways hurried in pre- paring matters for the ensuing Session of Parliament. We wrote to you like- wise upon the 16th of March last by the way of England, to be transmitted under cover to some friends in the English plantations. About three weeks ago we received a letter by the way of Engiand from Mr. James Byres, Capt. William Vetch, Capt. James Gibson, and Major John Lindsay, dated on board the Rising Sun in Caledonia Bay the 23d of Decem- ber, which, in so far as we are able to judge by its contents, seems to be rather the effect of that surprizing disappointment they mett with upon their first coming there, than the result of deliberate consultations under such un- expected circumstances ; and tho’ we are persuaded that there was no bad design, yet we cannot pass over the censuring of that hasty and dishonourable resolution of sending all the men supernumerary of five hundred to be dis- posed of in Jamaica, than which nothing could be more disgraceful to either the Company or Colony, nor of more pernicious consequence to the men themselves, as those who came to Jamaica on board of the St. Andrew have too experimentally found : wherefore it would have been much more honor- able for the Company’s and Colony’s interest and reputation to have sent any such number of men upon some honorable expedition, pursuant to the instruc- tions which these gentlemen carried along with them. But what makes the former resolution still the more inexcusable is, that by the very same letter they acknowledge that they had then six months’ provision for the whole number of men; nor can we but think it a great reflection on the Company, to ground that resolution on a supposition, forsooth, that we should be so careless of our own interest or of the lives of so many men imploy’d in our Company’s service, as to neglect the sending them a sufficient supply of pro- visions in due time, especially after we knew what had already happened. We think it strange to find it insinuated that any persons who have gone to Caledonia at the Company’s charge, whether volunteers or others, should decline to put their helping hand to any thing whatsoever that the Council may think fit to be done for the security, improvement, and interest of the Settlement ; or that any persons transported thither by the Company should, contrary to positive orders formerly given in that behalf, be allowed to desert ‘the Colony at pleasure, and to carry along with them such cargos as they 292 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. carried from hence freight free upon the Company’s expense; but more especially without making them in the first place pay for the charge of their transportation and the freight of their goods,—which rule we desire you may observe for the future, and that idleness may be discouraged as much as possible in all persons of what quality soever. We are both surprized and sorry to find that a spirit of misundoralaal and diffidence should so far prevail over a sett of gentlemen who have gone on so noble a design for the honour and interest of their countrey, (especially at such a juncture,) as to terminate in the imprisonment of such usefull persons as Mr. Alexander Hamilton, Capt. Thomas Drummond, and Capt. Thomas Kerr, who were severally intrusted by the Company, without assigning any particular reasons for such treatment other than their being of a different sentiment concerning the sending of those supernumerary men to Jamaica, or for having them otherways imploy’d. But we are hopefull that upon the arrival of Mr. Mackay with our new Commission and orders, these Si and animosities may be at an end. 3 Amongst other things, we cannot but put you in mind of the great preju- dice that we have sustained from first to last by the indiscretion of many persons writing their mind too freely by letters at random, without any cer- tain way of conveyance, which makes it odds that these letters do not come to hand at all; and tho’ they happen to come through, yet very often there is a much worse use made of them than we can reasonably suppose would be intended by the writers: wherefore we give you a strict precaution, that — neither yourselves nor any of your people write any more than generals, either to us or your particular correspondents, except by ships coming directly hither, or by the hands of particular messengers sent by you on purpose by vessels bound to any other ports in Europe, who after landing are to mas: the best of their way hither. The Parliament is to sit the 21st instant, and we have good reason to believe they will take all reasonable and just measures for vindicating the nation’s and our Company’s rights, and for supporting and assisting us in the prosecution of our Company’s and Colony’s lawfull designs. We are fitting out a small friggot of about one hundred and fifty tunns burden, mounted with 12 great gunns, to sail from Clyde with a cargo of provisions, strong liquors, and necessary working tools, about twenty days hence, by which you - 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 293 may expect a much more full and particular account of all matters here. In the meantime, we specially recommend it to you to be exemplary to your people in all acts of religion and virtue ; and to countenance and assist your Ministers in the encouraging of piety and suppressing of vice; and to study unity among yourselves as much as possible. In the confidence of which, we remain, RiauHt HonovuRABLE, Your assured friends and most humble Servants. j THE DIRECTORS TO THE CLERGYMEN AT THE CoLony.* The 10th of May, 1700. We wrote to you on the 10th of February last by a vessell that sail’d about that time from Dundee, by which you may see how zealous all ranks and degrees of people here are for vindicating the Kingdom’s rights in the main- tenance and support of our Company’s Settlement in Caledonia, as hoping that thereby this poor oppress’d nation may in time be raised above the con- tempt and reproach of its haughty neighbours, and with all having the glory of propagating the Gospel amongst the heathen Indians of that part of the world, of which we hope you! prove the happy and successfull instruments. We are heartily sorry for the death of Mr. Dalgleish; and that amongst many other disappointments, you should ly under such discouragements in the execution of your charge from the cold indifference of some, and the . Vitious lives of others of your people. We have written fully to the Council about this matter, and enjoin’d them to be not only exemplary in their own lives, but*to give also their countenance and assistance to you in the punish- ing of vice and encouraging of piety and virtue. We are hopefull that your own prudent management may convince many of them of their folly, and reclaim them from the inconsiderate sinfullness of their lives. Your brethren here are extraordinar zealous for our Company’s interest. The Synod mett here this week, and have unanimously voted to address the Commission of the Assembly that they may address the Parliament, which is to meet the * From a certified copy in the Miscellaneous Collection prefixed to the original letter of | 13th June, printed below, p. 300. 294 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. 21st of this month, on behalf of our Company. There are several other addresses coming from several other parts of the kingdom to their re; Commissioners to the Parliament. The Synod met at Air have a one of their own number to go by a ship that is to sail from Beets: willing) once this month with provisions for Caledonia, to be assisting to ben it in the ministry of the Gospel there. We believe a Probationer or two may likewise go along with him. We are heartily sorry for those unhappy divi- _ sions that have happened among our people upon their first landing there. ae ei. We are hopefull that upon the arrival of Mr. Mackay with our new ‘Commis- ae sion, Instructions, and Orders, these animosities will be at an end, as being Hk founded (we suppose) more upon a mistaken jealousy of each other, than upon ; any just or real ground for suspecting either party of real designs, As we cannot suffer ourselves to doubt of your own patience and firmness — of resolution to go through such difficulties as you encounter with, so we entreat that you be earnest and frequent in your admonitions to all degrees of persons in the Colony to study unanimity above all things, next to their duty to God. We were in hopes to have had a line directly from yourselves, which we expect by the first sure occasion at least after the receipt of our former letter above mention’d. So wishing you all peace, unity, and — we remain. ™ Tue Directors To THE CouNncIL orf THE CoLony.* os Re : ; eats Wh Ricut HonoraBte, Edinburgh, the 13th day of Fune, 1700. hired ship the Margaret. of Dundie, commanded by Captain Leonard Robert- son, freighted full of provisions, strong liquors, and other necessaries for the _ Colony’s use : as also on the 10th of May last, by our Company’s other hired = ship the Susanna of Bristol, commanded by Captain Thomas Lovet, freighted _ full of provisions from Belfast ; copies of both which letters we send you here~ 4 with inclosed, to which refers This goes by our Company’s other hired ship the Providence of Leith, commanded by Captain David Dundass. of Philpston. She is freighted with provisions, strong liquors, arms, ammuni- * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. +See above, pp. 262, 290. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 295 tion, working tools, and other necessaries, according to a particular invoyce which you are to receive herewith, under the hand and seal of John Munro, Doctor of Medicine, who is now at Port-Glasgow to give her her last dis- patches. He will also send you one of the principal duplicates of our Charter- Party with the said Capt. Dundass, of which for the more security we send you herewith an exact attested copy. We have by our said letter of the 10th of May last, acknowledg’d the receipt of a letter of the 23d of December last from Mr. James Byres, Captain William Vetch, Captain James Gibson, Major John Lindsay, and returned our sentiments accordingly. By this we owne the receipt of another letter of the 3d of February last, both which have been communicated to the Council-General of our Company, who expected they should have been after another strain. But we hope Mr. Mackay’s arrival with our late commission and instructions has given you and all your people a different view of things long before now, and that this shall serve only to confirm all of you in the belief that we are fully resolved to stand by and support you to the utmost of our power ; and, which is more, the whole nation, we may say, is now fully embarqued in your interest; for not only did a very considerable part of the nation address his Maty for allowing the Parliament to sit, but when mett, many of the shires, royal burghs, and other incorporations throughout the kingdom, have address’d the Parliament on behalf of our Company ; and after three or four days’ session, some things occurred to the Commissioner which he judg’d himself oblig’d to acquaint his Ma‘y with, and therefore adjourn’d the Parliament to the 20th instant, as you will perceive from His Grace’s speech to that effect;* and see- * His Grace’s speech, as it is recorded, was,—‘‘ My Lords and Gentlemen, I am troubled with such a cold and hoarseness, that not being able to speak much, nor in a condition to stay any time here, I shall therefore only tell you that as I was ever firm and faithful to my King, so I was ever zealous for the honour and interest of my country; and at this time I hoped to have done acceptable service to both: ForI can boldly say, that I have power and instructions for every thing that appeared necessary or convenient for the good and advantage of the nation as to their religion, property, liberty, trade, and particularly what could be of most solid use to our African and Indian Company. But several things have occurred wherein I find myself obliged to consult His Majesty, and so of necessity must adjourn for some days.” —Acts of Parliament, Appx., x. 42. Parliament was adjourned to 20th June, but was not convoked until 29th October. 296 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. ing there was little progress made in any business that came before the Parliament, and that so long an adjournment was unexpected, therefore the majority of the members met that very night and sign’d a pretty pithy address to His Maty with relation thereto, and sent some of their own number to present it to His Maty. We have no reason to doubt but that it will tend much to the honour of the nation and interest of our Company and Colony, maugre all the unkindness that we have mett with from several persons about the Court of England. We received a letter from Mr. Mackay, bearing date at Port Royal in Jamaica the 13th of February last. We cannot but say that the Council-General of our Company, as well as we, seem’d very well satisfied with his resolutions taken there, and with his dispatch towards the Colony. Upon whose arrival we nothing doubt but the former resolutions to send off so considerable a number of men would be prevented, and thereby Mr. Byres his business at Jamaica the more easily transacted, which by his letter of the 29th of March seem’d no less heavy and troublesome to himself — than unacceptable to us and dishonourable to the Company. We hope that Captain Alexander Campell of Fonabb, one of your number, is likewise arriy’d with you safe long before now, he having sail’d from Barbados the 24th of January last, on board of a vessell which he bought there, with a cargo of provisions for the Colony’s use, upon a credit which we gave him from London for that effect; and tho’ his bills for the value, amounting to £1229 ster", were drawn payable only at a month’s sight, yet we paid them peremptorily upon the first presenting of them, which, together with our readiness in paying those bills that were formerly drawn by your predecessors, (as Mr. Mackay knows,) may, we hope, convince such as furnish provisions to our Colony that they need not look upon their payment as desperate, and con- vince you of the great care and concern we have for you; nevertheless we hope you will be discreet in your draughts, seing we have already sent, and are dayly sending, considerable supplies to you. We have a letter likewise from Archibald Stewart, dated at New York, the 20th of February last, by which he intimates that he was in hopes to sail from thence to Caledonia with a sloop full of provisions, about the first of March, so that we hope this may find him also with you. The shamefull resolution and unaccountable manner in which your predecessors left the settlement has been so detestable to this nation in general, and to our Company in particular, that the Council- 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 297 General of our Company have declared it lawfull to any person or persons of what degree or quality soever inhabiting the said Settlement of Caledonia, not only to protest against, but also to disobey and oppose any such resolution ; and that it shall be death either publickly or privatly to move, deliberate, or reason upon any desertion or surrender of the said Settlement of Caledonia, without special orders from the said Council-General for that effect. And to the end that their mind may be the better known therein, they have sent you the inclosed proclamation, which you are to publish forthwith in such manner as the said Proclamation doth direct. And the said Council-General, considering that several inconveniencies and hinderances may happen in the execution of your affairs through the~too frequent change of Presidents of your Council, have, by their Act of the 3d instant, ordered that upon receipt hereof you choose a President of your own number to continue for at least six weeks, and not above three months; and that upon the determination ofthat term you choose again for the like time, and so successively at the determination of each term afterwards ; and like- wise, that in all matters by you resolved upon, every Councellour enter his reasons for assenting to, or dissenting from any resolution you take, but that none of you be allowed to protest in any case, except in the case of deliber- ating upon deserting or surrendering the Settlement as aforesaid. And in respect that the Company has an entire confidence in the zeal, capacity, and integrity of Mr. Alexander Shiells, our Council-General do recommend it to you to be earnest with him for staying upon the Colony for a longer time than the year to which he seems to limit himself; and that for his encouragement, as well as for his and our satisfaction, you admitt him to be present in your Councils, that when you find it necessary you may take his advice in any important affairs that may occurr, as being a person of con- siderable knowledge and experience in the world, and who has had occasion to be much in foreign parts. In our former, we seriously recommended to you that you would use your best endeavours in planting and cultivating the ground as soon as possible, to the end it may produce such necessaries for your subsistence as may at least lessen the charge from hence ; and for that end we have sent over by this ship one Mr. Elphingston, who has been a planter, and had the oversight of plantations in America for a course of many years. He is a person, we have 2P 298 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. reason to believe, can be of great use to you in that matter, me do therefore earnestly recommend him to your favour ; and we desire, that as he has frankly, for the love he bears to his countrey, undertaken this voyage upon no other terms than to be considered according to his merit and behaviour, — that you may not fail of giving him all due encouragement, by appointing a competent number of men to be directed by him in planting as aforesaid, — with suteable allowance of provisions, and to allow him all the needfull tools — and other necessaries for that purpose, and send us particular advice by all sure occasions of what progress he makes in that matter. By Mr. Mackay’s letter from Jamaica we understand that Andrew Living-— ston, chyrurgeon, late prisoner in Carthagena, has made his escape from thence, and return’d with Mr. Mackay to the Colony. We therefore desire, — that, for the said Andrew Livingston’s encouragement at present, you would order him four gallons of brandy for his own proper use, over and aboye the — ct common allowance, and that you may encourage him otherways as we are hopefull his care and behaviour may deserve. We likewise recommend to your favour Roger Oswald and William Beattie, who went along with the first expedition to Caledonia, and whom we have now sent in the quality of supercargos of this ship, in respect that we are satisfied there is nothing to be laid to their charge, but that they have hitherto acquitted themselves with candor and ingenuity in such matters as was committed to them. Mr. Oswald was formerly recommended to your predecessors to be imployed in the quality of a clerk, and we do now renew that recommendation in his favours to you, to be by you imployed according to his qualification and deportment. There is likewise one George Cowan, who went upon the first expedition ; . and by reason of his being sent to convoy Domingo de la Rada to Tubuganti, has had the occasion of traversing the most important places possessed by the Spaniards upon the Continent of America, as he himself can particularly inform you; and do therefore recommend him to your favour as a person who in his sphere may be very usefull to you, whenever you may have oceasion to send dispatches or a party to visite your neighbouring plantations. We have so often recommended to you and all your inferior officers, in your respective stations, to study unanimity and a hearty agreement in all your proceedings, that we are hopefull you’l have so much regard to those frequent 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 299 admonitions for your own safety, as well as for our and your interest, that a further repetition of any such charge may, by your prudent and unanimous concurrence in all important affairs, be now rendred needless. In the con- fidence of which we remain, Ricut HONORABLE, Your affectionate friends and most humble Servants, Francis Scort. Dp. Drummonp. H. CunIncGHAME. Pat. Scort. JoHN Scoaw. HueuH Montcomerie. JNo. DrumMonD. Geo. BAILLIE. Ro. BLAcKwoop. JO. J AMESONE. Jox- ERSKINE. THE DIRECTORS TO THE OFFICERS OF THE CoMPANY.* The 13th day of June 1700. Above+ goes copy of a letter which we wrote by a vessel we sent from Dundee in February last with provisions, which we hope has arrived at your port long before now. We referr you again to the serious perusal of the said letter. We question not but by this time you are convinced, from the care we have taken of supplying you with provisions, that the resolution of sending any number of your men to Jamaica for fear of want of provisions, was a rash and unadvised as well as a dishonourable resolution ; and we hope that Mr. Mackay’s arrival has given you another view of things. We have written fully to the Council, and therefore need not enlarge to you, only let it suffice in the general that you may depend upon not only our Company but the whole nation’s concern in your welfare, as is unquestionably evident by a late National Address to his Maty, and likewise now by repeated addresses both from Shires and Burghs to the Parliament for the maintenance and support of our Company and Colony; and by the Parliament’s own deportment at this time, of which you may expect an account when they come to a conclusion in such matters as relate to you. We recommend to * From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection, addressed ‘*For the Overseers, Assistants, Sub-Assistants, and Sea-Officers belonging to the Indian and African Company's Colony of Caledonia, ia America.” + See p. 269. 300 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. you unity and concord among yourselves, a hearty complyance and concur- rence with whatever is proposed by the Council for the honour aud interest of our Countrey, Company, and Colony, and above all, a due Poet o piety and virtue, the increase of which is the hearty desire of, GENTLEMEN, Your affectionate friends and humble Servants.* Tue Directors TO THE CLERGYMEN AT THE CoLony.f Ditto, the 13th day of June 1700. Above goes copies of two several letters which we wrote to you on the 10th of February and 10th of May last, the one by a vessell that sail’d from Dundee, and the other by a vessell that sail’d from Belfast, both freighted with provisions for the Colony. This goes by another ship ready to sail with the first fair wind from Clyde with provisions likewise, and other necessaries for the Colony’s use. We were in hopes to have sent another of your brethren by this ship to be assisting to you in the ministry, pursuant to the resolution of the Synod of Air mention’d in our last, who appointed Mr. John King, one of their number, to go by this ship ; but his unexpected indisposi- tion, and the ship’s sudden departure, deprives us of the satisfaction, and you of the assistance which we were in hopes his going might have yielded at this time ; for tho’ we apply’d to the Commission of the General Assembly here that they might send a Minister fitly qualified by this ship, yet such was the shortness of the advertisement, that they deferr’d determining in it till the occasion of another ship offer, which we hope may be very speedily, for we are making preparation towards the dispatch of a vessell as soon as ever the Parliament will come to a determination as to what supplies and assistance we may expect from them, which we have reason to believe may be very considerable ; and the Commission are to meet again on the 18th day of this * The signatures are the same as those appended to the preceding document. + From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection, addressed, “ For the Right Reverend Moderator and remanent Ministers of the Church of C: wey: upon the continent of America.” 1700. : THE DARIEN PAPERS. 301 month, at which time we shall not fail to renew our former application to them ; and as to their concern for you, we referr you to their own letter herewith inclosed. So hoping that this may find you in more agreeable cir- cumstances than you were in before the receipt of our advices by Mr. Mackay and our other letters above mention’d, and that God may bless your endea- vours with success, we remain, Ricut REvEREND, Your affectionate friends and humble Servants. * Tue Directors To Caprain James MILuER.t Edinburgh, the 13th of June, 1700. We wrote to you on the 10th of February last, by a vessel which we . dispatched then from Dundee with provisions for Caledonia, copy of which goes here’ above, to which refers.[ Since, we have yours of the 25th day of December last, from Caledonia Bay, which is very agreeable to us. We hope you are all, by this time, satisfied that we are resolved to stand by you to the utmost of our power ; and it’s become now so universally a national concern, that our Parliament have resolved that the affair of Caledonia shall be considered before any thing else, except religion. We are very full to the Council, and therefore need not enlarge to you any more than to give you a fresh assurance that we are, Sir, Your assured friends and humble Servants. § Tue DIREcTORS TO THE CoUNCIL oF THE CoLoNy. || Rigut HonovuraBLe, Edinburgh, the 25th of June, 1700. We wrote to you on the 13th instant, to which referrs ; since which, your * The signatures are the same as those appended to the two preceding documents, { From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. t See above, p. 277. § The signatures are the same as those appended to the three preceding documents. || From the original in the Miscellaneous Collection. 302 THE DARIEN PAPERS. agreable letters of the 13th and 27th of February last are ‘both ome hand ; and this going by the same ship with the former above mention’ thought the transcribing of copies needless. We have iepeneth ; the same time from Mr. Mackay, bearing date at Port-Royal, in J the 17th of March last, giving a satisfying account of the necessi coming back thither after he had been in sight of his desired port ; ; a letter from Doctor Blair, of a latter date, advising that Mr. Macka Captain Thomas Drummond had taken skilfull pilots along with a r returned to Caledonia, with full resolution to get in thither at | rate which we heartily wish and hope they have done, and that the because’ of those supplies and instructions which Mr. Mackay carried with him. We have likewise received advices from Mr. Archibald $i dated at New York, the day of March last, and likeways fi i John Anderson, dated the ditto, advising that ditto Stews actually sail’d for Caledonia the day before. You may depend upon the respective bills mention’d in those several letters shall be duly he with acceptance and payment. Tho’ we cannot express the general s: 2 tion that your late victory over your enemies has given to all ranks | nc degrees of people here, yet we have a just sense of Captain Alexa ander Campbell of Fonabb’s part in that victory, as well as of the frank offer en : his service, and the dispatch that he has made in going thither ; and as G ie has been favourable both to you and us in his success, so we hope the s God that has hitherto supported you against your enemies will continue do ; and that, Jong before this time, you are » fully ppvined of the ind 2 ote cainkini to ‘all those concern’d in you ; for it is past expressing wae » gious effects a hearty concurrence in all your measures is capable to ] Dro in all respects whatsoever, but more especially in discomfiting the wi designs of your enemies. We are. ie sorry for the: die ae of € degrees, wrote a very pertinent and aia letter to us, i intiiating a cole dition at that time, and that he gave the charge of all fie phy bain: papers by you committed to his care, to his fellow ‘passenger, Mr. Ada Cleghorn, our-countryman, of whose affection to both our — ‘your interest 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 303 we have had former proofs, and his care and prudence in the conveying of those letters and papers safe to our hands through all those accidents that he mett ‘with in his passage. We refer you to our other letters as to what provisions and necessaries we sent along with this ship; and you may depend upon it, that the execution of what you write for in your last letter above mention’d shall become immediately under our consideration and care. We are, Ricut HonovRABLE, Your affectionate friends and most humble Servants, TWEEDALE. Dp. DRuMMOND. Basi HAMILTon. JON. ERSKINE. FRANCIS Scorr. Ro. BLackwoop. - Guo. Barbus. H. CUNINGHAME. XXXV.—CORRESPONDENCE ABOUT SIR WILLIAM BEESTON’S CONDUCT TO THE COLONY.* Cory of a Lerrer from Mr. Ssec¥ Vernon to S* W™ Besston, Gov® of Jamaica, Dat. at Whitehall, 18th Sept 1700.f ' Since I writ to you last week, I have received directions from his Maty-to acquaint you with his pleasure, that you should not detain the Scotch ship, * Sir William Beeston was Governor of Jamaica. His proclamation, dated 8th April 1699, is often referred to in these Papers. On the authority that he had received instructions to that effect from Secretary Vernon, he enjoined his Majesty’s subjects, “that they do not presume, on any pretence whatever, to hold any correspondence with the said Scots, nor to give them any assistance of arms, ammunition, provisions, or any other necessaries whatso- ever, either by themselves, or any other for them, or by any of their vessels, or of the English nation, as they will answer the contempt of his Majesty's command to the contrary at their utmost peril.” The Proclamation will be found in many of the contemporary pamphlets about the affairs of the Company. + From a paper thus titled in the Miscellaneous Collection. 304 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. the St Andrew, or any other Scotch vessel come or coming from Darien, but that you permit them to sail without any hindrance on your part. You will therefore take care to observe the same accordingly. ' Exrract of a Lerrer from Str W™ Brszston, Gover® of Jamaica, to Me Sec¥ VERNON, dated 14 Dect 1700.* I have your Honor’s letters of the 10 and 18 of September past. For the St Andrew, none ever asked here to let her go; nor was she ever ina condition to sail since she came into this port ; but, upon a supposition that I would not let her go by one of the Scotch Officers, I told them that, if they would send materials, I would not obstruct their fitting of her. But here has been none to ask about her, nor fit her up, so that she lyes like a wreck, | and has been so pillaged by those that were left to look after her (merely for their maintenance), there being nothing sent them to live on, nor to repair her, that I much question if ever they will carry her away; but if they do not, it shall be their own faults, and not mine. In my owne judgement, I could not forbear thinking that the Scotch had but uneasy measures ; and therefore, I must confess, I was willing to shew them what respect I could, and they have owned so much, and have no reason to say otherwise ; there- fore they do not do me right to say I have forbidden them to carry away their ship, in which I doubt not but your Hon will do me right in acquaint- ing them. * From a paper thus titled in the Miscellaneous Collection. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 305 XXXVI—INSTRUCTIONS AND SAILING ORDERS TO THE COMMANDER OF THE SHIP MARGARET. Instructions from the Court of Directors of the Company of Scor- LAND Trading to Arrica and the Inpizs, to Caprain Lronarp RoBertson, Commander of the said Company’s hired Ship, the Margaret of Dundee.* ‘You are, in pursuance of your Charter-Party with the said Court, and of . your Commission following thereupon, bearing equal date with these presents, to set sail with the first fair wind, and make the best of your way, either south or north about, to the said Company’s Colony in Caledonia, on the Continent of America, over against Golden Island, which lies close to the shoar, about ten leagues to the leeward of the mouth of the great river of Darien, in and about eight degrees and forty minutes of north latitude ; and in your passage thither, you are to call at the Island of St. Thomas, to get what intelligence you can concerning the Company’s proper ships, the Rising Sun and the Hope, commanded by Captains James Gibson and Miller, together with their hired ships, the Duke of Hamilton, commanded by Captain Walter Duncan, and the Hope of Borrowstonness, commanded by Captain Daling, which sailed all in company from the Isle of Bute on the 24th day of September last ; where you are likewise to enquire for the Company’s proper ship, the Speedy Return, commanded by Capt John Baillie, on board of which is Mr. Mackay; as also for the Anna-Caledonia sloop, which sailed from New-York the twenty-second day of September, on board of which is Capt Thomas Drummond. You are from thence to proceed on your voyage, and touch at Port Morant, towards the east end of the Island of Jamaica, and endeavour there likewise to get farther intelligence of the Rising Sun, and the other ships above named under her convoy, sending a letter to Doctor Stewart at Port Morant, or Capt Robertson, on the north side of Jamaica, both Scotsmen, who will either come, or send such intelligence to you as they can from thence, and then proceed directly to Caledonia aforesaid : * From the certified extract in the Miscellaneous Collection. 2Q 306 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. and when you make Golden Island, you are to come to an anchor about the middle of the Bay, opposite to the body of the said Island, or ly bye, as you think most convenient, untill you give a signall to them ashoar, by firing of a gunn, and making a wheef with your ensigne for a pilote to conduct you into the harbour ; or otherways, send your boat well mann’d into the harbour (which lies $.8.E. from the said Island) for one ; and upon your arrival safe within the harbour, or where else the Colony may be settled, you are forthwith to wait upon the Council of the Colony, or, in their absence, on the Com- manding Officers in Chief of our Colony there for the time, to whom you are to deliver the said cargo of provisions, and take receipt therefore, and return again hither, pursuant to the conditions of your Charter-Party above men tion’d. | But if it should so happen (as God forbid) that you find none of our people there, nor no intelligence concerning them, then you are to sail along the coast to the windward in quest of them, and particularly about Garret’s Bay, which is about three or four leagues to the windward of the Harbour of Caledonia aforesaid ; and if you should happen not to find them there, you are to endeavour to learn if they be settled any where upon the coast between that and the Samballas, as being about fifteen or sixteen leagues to the leeward of the said Harbour of Caledonia, for delivery of your cargo in manner above written ; and if, after diligent search in and about those parts, you should happen to have no advice concerning them, then and in that case you are, joyntly with our supercargo, to dispose of the said proyi- sions to the best advantage ; and if no reasonable opportunity should offer to dispose of the said cargo, you are to return with the same to Scotland, according to Charter-Party, keeping a distinct journal of all material occur- rences during your voyage outward and inward. So wishing you a happy voyage, and a safe return, we bid you heartily farewell. In testimony of all which, these presents are, in name, presence, and by order of the said Court of Directors, seal’d with the Company’s Seal, and signed by the Company’s Secretary, at Edinburgh, the fifth day of March 1700. By order of the said Court, Rop. Mackenziz, Secry- 1709. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 307 Satine ORDERS To Caprain RoBertson.* By the Court of Directors of the Company of Scotnanp Trading to Arrica and the Inpizs. You are hereby ordered not to suffer (so far as you are able) the hired ship, the Margaret of Dundee, under your command, nor any other ship. or ships belonging to or freighted by the said Company, or having the said Company’s Commission (during your voyage). to be insulted by the ships of warr of any nation; nor to search your said ship or ships, nor suffer your men to be press’d, upon any pretence whatsoever ; but, by force of arms (if need be), you are to defend your trade and navigation, pursuant to the powers and priviledges granted to our Company by the Act of Parliament herewith delivered unto you ; nor are you to have any regard to any order which the commanders of any ships of warr, or others, may happen to pretend, for searching, pressing, or detaining, as aforesaid, unless the same be sign’d by the King, and countersign’d also either by the King or his Secretary of State for the Kingdom of Scotland. For doing whereof, this shall be to you a sufficient warrant. Sign’d by the Company’s Secretary, and seal’d with the Company’s Seal, in name, presence, and by order of the said Court of Directors, at Edinburgh, the fifth day of March, 1700. By order of the said Court of Directors, Rop. MackEnziz, Sec’y: To Captain LEONARD RoBERTSON, Commander of the Indian and African Company’s hired Ship, the Margaret of Dundee, or the Commander- in-Chief on board thereof for the time. * From a certified copy in the Miscellaneous Collection. There is in this collection a set of instructions in the same terms, on vellum, to “ Captain David Dundas of the ship Providence of Leith.” 308 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. XXXVII—JOURNALS OF THE VOYAGE OF THE SHIP MARGARET.* 1. A BREVIARY OF MY JOURNALL, AND OF THE MOST REMARKABLE OccURRENCES TO MYSELF THEREIN. I sail’d from Dundie on the 9th March 1700, but was winde bound at Kerstoun, in Orkney, till the 19 of Apryll following : though I had attempted twice to be gone from thence, being one time beat back after nine dayes at _ sea, and the other 2 dayes sailling, the 19 foresaid. I came to Nevis, one of the Caribbee Islands in the West Indies, 28 May, where I waitted on the las Generall of these Islands, Collonell Fox, being introduced by our countrey- man, Coll. Alext Hammiltoun. I was used with all imaginable civility as to personal respect, but plainly told by him of the severity and strictness of his injunctions in relation to my publict condition, so as neither wood nor water, nor any thing else, could be allowed me on that head, though, for his own pairt, he told me he wished I had what I wanted ; and if that I could think how to come at it without his knowledge, yea, without his peremptor allow- ance, he should connive at it, being as willing I were supplyed as I was myselfe. Whether this was complement or not, I shall not determin ; since I know the man is much indebted to our countreymen when in Flanders, though I think there is litle from ane English mouth to be trusted in respect of us, and there is none before of them hes yett gott the impudence to doe against us above board, at least most of them would seem to lay the blame on the * These two journals are evidently written by the same person, but while agreeing in the general outline of their details, each has so many statements and observations which the other has not, that it has been deemed proper to give them both a place in this volume. The difference between them may be attributed to the circumstance, that the prior and shorter of the two appears to have been drawn up as a statement, while the other is the private journal of the writer, filled up, as some incidents of internal evidence show, from day to day, and apparently intended only for his own or other indulgent eyes. The author of both is eyi- dently the supercargo of the ship, Captain Patrick Macdowall—see above, pp. 257, 264, and the incident as to the cutting of the initials, recorded in the second journal. Both journals are from MSS. in the Miscellaneous Collection. The shorter MS. is probably a scroll; the other evidently a copy by a person who has not been able accurately to read the original. —_— 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 309 Government, vindicating themselfes as to their proper inclinations. My opinion is, to take them as we find them, without putting the smallest trust in them ; so, if we can gain any thing from any of them, it may be altogither unexpected and so redundant to our methods and proposalls in the manadge- ment of our affairs, either in respect to Callidonia, or our nationall interest whatsomever, beleeving they are averse to all other things that may have the . least biass to the last as well as the first ; ther great opposition to the one proceeding merely from the tendency it has to the other. I came to Bastar, on the Island of St Christopher, the 29th of May. It is the seatt of the French Governour, to whom I addressed myselfe, being intro- duced by the forsaid Coll. Hammiltoun, who had come on purpose alongst with me from Nevis. The Governour is the Count de Rayan, Monsieur Lachayn. He was formerlie Protestant I understand. He entertained me according to the customary French gallantry, withall intimating his particular inclinations to serve the Scots, whom he knew had a more than ordinary character of freindship with the French in generall, and who, he said, would contribut all in them lay to the assisting them in the prosecution of the design they now had in hand of Callidonia ; on which he enlarged with all the seeming advan- tadges that both nations might obtain by ane union therein. I answered him as I thought his complement merited, still retaining such ambiguous interpre- tations as could no way be found derogatory from the present circumstances of our government with that of England ; and yett whereby he might gather our countrey had still a greatt confidence in the antiant amity of the two Crowns of France and Scotland, and would make use of them on opportunity ; and that we would no way succumb to the English designs of overawing us, but maintain the character (which Charlemaign, in his league with our Achaius, beleeved we merited) to the last drop of our blood. He told me I might freely command what his Government affoorded, and not only me, but any else of our nation that chanced that way on that accompt. He offered me wine and brandie, what quantities I had a mind for, at an easier rate than we cann furnish them from Scotland ; and recommended me for water that of . privat cisterns. I most say this had all the appearance of kindness in the world ; and whatever their underhand dealling or meanning may be in it, yet I doe think we can still make more agreeable termes with the French then the English cann; and, for my own pairt, if it behooved me to be a slave, would rather chuse the first than the last for my masters. All that can be said against 310 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. it is our religion, which I am confident will have security enough from a French capitulation ; and it is as likelie the French and we may come to a recon- cilement in that as the other ; who knows. Lewis le Grand is a man, I am sure, of as much sense, privat integrity, and honor, as Henrie the Eight was. How- ever, in the strictest sense, a slave to the Turk or the Czar of Muscoyie, to the French, to the English, or any other people whatsoever, is much the same in my opinion, as I am sure it most be to every free-born sowll ; and God forbid any Scotsman should so far degenerat as to allow any of the bastard brood of Rome to insult us without a fair decision by stroke of sword ; where Rome herselfe environed with all her laurells, and under conduct of her bravest Emperors, with all her force, and with what she had subdued our now domineering neihbours, could never prevail ; but, on the contrair, was foreed to turn the chaice, and secure themselfes by building walls and fences, which I suppose no historie of these times is silent of. Another of the French Forts on St. Christophers. The 31 I left Bastar, and went ashoar to Figtree in the boat, the ships lying off and on. I met with Major M‘Arthur, one of our countreymen, and on whom Mr. Daniell Mackay had the credit for hundred pound sterling. He told me he was very readie to have answered it, had Mr. M‘Kay required it; and that he only gott about 21 pound thereof. He said he would give the rest on demand, or so farr else as his creditt could goe, for the carrying on of the design of Calidonia. He seemed to be displeased with our manadgment at home, and promised to writt so much to Bailie Wardroper in Glasgow. He said he could, with a great deall of ease and security to himselfe, lay up provisions in store for us, so as they might be readie on a call, providing alwayes we wer obleidged to take them of his hand in 4 or 5 moneths, being the time that provisions will keep in the West Indies. He told me he could easily provid us in watter, by fraughting a French sloup to bring it off for us from old road, which, though in the English possession, was at all times free to the French by the capitulation at the late peace. He told me likewayes he had sent Mr. M‘Kay’s letters by Andrew Leitch, my countrey- . man, I mean a Galloway man, sometime in Argyll. He gave me two letters, one to Mr. M‘Kay, the other to Capt” Gibson, commander of the Rising Sun. He had Capt®’ Robertson’s instructions also how to find St. Thomas’ harbour. The 2d of June I came to St Thomas, where I waitted on Menheer Pedro . 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 311 Vanbell, Director Generall of the Brandenburgh Companie there, to whom I was recommended for intelligence. I was there two days, most pairt at his house, and entertained with a great deall of kindness and respect. He rode out to the countrey with me to one Mr. Tessemaker’s, who has a verie fine plantation there, and who was intended, on the first certain information of the settlement of Callidonia, to goe down there, as were a great many more on that Island. Menheer Vanbell signified so much to me of his own incli- nations, and that he had wrott to his constituents thereof at Brandenburgh, showing them how much advantadge a settlement amongst the Scots in Callidonia would be to them of the same nature as they had at St Thomas, and that they seemed to be verie weell satisfied with the proposall, so that nothing seemed wanting to the effectuating of it but the security of our settlement. He gave me all the advice he had of our Collonie which was immediately from Carthagena; and latterly our folks’ surrender to the Spaniard, though nothing of it, only of their being blocked up, with the number of ships and men very exact. Menheer Vanbell is a man very much acquainted with the Spaniards’ genius, having had a correspondence amongst them for twenty-two years or more, as himselfe told ‘me. He is a verie experienced merchant in most sorts of trade, and, being withall willing to settle in Calledonia, I think ought to be encouradged, it being such as he that we want most there, and who can be most serviceable in circumstances. His Lady is a most vertewous, discreett, jocose, pleasant, weell-bredd, weel- naturred woman as I have almost had the honor to converse with ; and it troubled me not a litle my want of languadge, as I could have. wished to have entertained her, having verie litle either French or Dutch, which were the two languadges shee spoke, though I understood a great pairt of both. Her husband speaks prettie good English. He informed particularly of Cap- tain Thomas Drummond, and of his good correspondence with Admirall Bembo, who were together at St. Thomas, also when he left the place, and gave me a letter to him, and engadged to writt to me with everie occasion to Calli- donia, as I did the like to him thence. I knew from Mr. Tessemaker like- wayes of W™ Stewart's being there. The 4th of June we left St. Thomas, and the 15th thereof came up with the Isle of Pynes, on the Continent of America, 3 leagues to the westward of Goolden Island, and which we took for it, so that we sent our boat to look for 312 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. our Collonie. I wrott two letters, one to the Councill, and another to Captain Andrew Stewart, my Lord Gallaway’s brother, with our first mate, who went allongst in the boat ; but, after having come round all these islands betwixt Goolden Island and the Isle of Pynes, they returned about 12 of the cloack at night, without any other intelligence. Ino sooner heard of these Islands when I knew our mistake, and accordingly steered away for Golden Island, where we came nixt morning, and put our boat again ashoar, with the foresaid letters, but was much more surprised on the boat’s return than we were the night before, having surely found the place, but too surely the Spaniard in it,*by the account they gave us of their encounter. However, it could not satisfie me, so that I behooved to have it from myselfe, resolving to rely on no second-hand accompt. I took the boat myselfe, and rowed to the harbour with a flag of truce, designing to have gone ashoar on the encouradgement of any flagg, whatever should have followed ; I was so yerie anxious to know something of the reasons how the Spaniard had come by that place. But no flagg being showen me, I begunn to reflect with what sort of an enemie I had to deall, one that would take all the advantages they could. I begunn to suspect that perhaps our people, in their capitulation, might have agreed that all others coming from Scotland should be looked on as invaders, and treated accordingly, having engadged never to attempt that place any further. Though in the meane, as I was sure such articles could be no way binding on our people at home, so I was perswaded they would not stand to them, but, on the first opportunity, endeavour to repossess themselfs of the place, which might be a mean to hasten my death, and sub- ject me to the lash of the failzour of the treatie. I most say, if I had thought my falling in their hands could have been of any advantadge to the interests of my countrey or the Company, in that design, I should have had verie little regard to what might have occurred myselfe thereby ; but being, on the con- trair, cautioned that I might yet live to do them service, and such an act had rather been looked on as precipitant and inconsiderat, I chused to come aboard after having firred two small shoat amongst them in token of defiance, first having pulled down our flagg of truce, and letting only the Seots collours fly. As soon as I came aboard, I took ane instrument against Mr. Robertson for not delivering his cargo conforme to charter partie, first requiring him thereto, which he immediately answered. I have both by me. I went afterwards ashoar | a ee — oS a ee ee a ee eae i . 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 313 towards Carrett Bay, but, night coming on, was obleidged to return without any sort of information ; and so we made the best of our way for Portmorant, in Jamaica. The 26th of June we came to Portmarant, on the east end of Jamaica, where I sent the boat ashoar with a letter to Doctor Stewart there, or in his absence to Captain Robertson, at his plantation on the north side of Jamaica. IT hade a letter in return from Doctor Stewart, informing me of the surrender of Fort St. Andrew to the Spaniard, and for further intelligence referring me to Doctor Blair at Port Royall, to whom he writt to that purpose, leaving it open for my perusall. This was all in the letter ; but our gunner told me that he gave him accompt of the death of Mr. M‘Kay and the manner thereof, as also of that of Captain Robertson forsaid some few moneths agoe ; and of our people’s being at Blewfeilds ; that it was no want of provisions obleidged our people to give up Calledonia, but rather dissention amongst themselves, with want of dew conduct and discretion in the manadgers ; and that if.they hade keeped it out for some few dayes longer, the Spaniards had deserted the siedge, both by reason of the increasing sickness amongst them, and the discouradgment they had gott from the arrivall of Captain Drum- mond, who came in some few hours after the surrender ; and a great many things needless to rehearse heir, being all at large in my journall. The 28th of June, I came to Port-Royall, where immediatly I went to waitt on Coll. Knight, the Governour of the Fort; and thence to Doctor| Blair ; but he was so much indisposed that I did not think it proper to disturb him at that time. I took a wherrie presently, and went to Kingston, where the Generall then was, Sir Wm. Beestoun, to pay the ordinary com- plement att our arrival. He was outwardly discreet enough, I most say, but so very zealous in his proclamations, that he insinuat it as a verie particular favour to allow me wood and watter. I accordingly accepted it, and in return told him I had a great deall of verie good liquors and provisions aboard, which I was confident would be serviceable in that place; and was therefore (if he pleased) willing to dispose upon them; but that he would not on any accompt, telling me it was there against the proclamations. I having the King’s ansuears to several of the Company’s addresses in my pocket, pulled it out, saying I was sure these had now no effect, seeing that his Majestie had by so often and repeated tokens as these declared their 2Rk 314 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. invalidity. He said that was more than ever he had heard of, except from Mr. M‘Kay ; he had seen something to that purpose, but since he had it not from whence he had the other, that was immediatly from the Secretary of State, he could not, or would not, take any notice of it ; and, for his pairt said, he beleeved it had been coinned, as weel as printed in Scotland. I assured him not, and said I could not but admire that such jugling should be used in a matter of this moment as this was to Scotland, for we had no doubt at home but of the taking off the proclamations, having so good ground as his Majestie’s repeated promises to that effect, it were both unjust and unreasonable in us to think otherwayes, a King’s word being the most sacred and inviolable tye the subject has to depend on; and therefore said it certainly behooved that there were ane miscarriadge in the matter, which yett how, I said, I could not weall understand ; but was hopefull a litle time would discover it. I asked him, since he would not allow me to dispose of my cargo, to make money of, if he would permitt me to doe it for the use of the Companie’s ships that were heir. He would not this: either, telling me he wished he had not done so much of that alreaddie in having allowed our people then at Blewfeilds, to dispose of two or 300 pound yalew for ther immediat subsistance, though he was sure he thought it was a matter of meer humanity, they being dying for meer want of fresh provisions ; and yett that he expected to be chequed for it from Court. I asked him what then should we doe with the St. Andrew, seeing Mr. Jenkins hes positively refused to give any more money without more effects be putt in his hands for the support of her? He plainly told me he could not allow any I had, or that should come that way, to be disposed of, come of her what would; and yet we behooved to bring everie thing shee wanted from Scotland when we came. to carrie her away, for he would not allow even for that effect any Scots goods, or from Scotland, to be sold in Jamaica. 1 desired to know of him if he would allow her to goe when we had all in a reddiness to carrie her off 4 He paused a little on that, and at lenth told me flatlie not, if there were so much as a rumor of our -reattacking Calledonia, farr less if we were either actually in it, or on our way, without a particular order from his Majestie ; and -he said he had signified so much to Captain M‘Kay, and desired him to acquaint the Directors therewith. I found there was nothing to be done with him, and so took my leave. It is to be notted all-that past betwixt the 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 315 Governour and me about the St. Andrew was att Spanish town. The first time I waitted on him, to bidd him farewell, though I wished it only so farr as he might be our friend. I see Captain Hutchison, who had come over with these recruits Jamison brought for Calledonia. He is married to a verie great fortoun, a widow, of about 2 or 3000 pound ster. per annum. He was dangerously sick then. When I came to Port-Royall, I went to see Doctor Blair, from whom I understood of our people’s being still at Blewfields. I see a letter for him from Sir Francis Scott of Thirlstoun, in answer to one from him, directed to Sir Francis by mistake, for Sir Patrick Scott of Ancrum. However, I find the main of it was about the St. Andrew, and proposing the way how to bring her home. He gave me another to the Directors, much to the same purpose. The 30th of June I went aboard of the St. Andrew with Capt® Robertson, to learne, so far as I could, the condition of the ship. It is almost as badd as can be, and if not speeedily taken care of, most end in her utter ruin. I beleeve shee may now be gott in a condition to swime home with great pains, time, or expence, her bottom being yett prettie tight by what I could learn of the men aboard her, who say shee pumps verie litle watter or none ; as to riggan and saills, it is but indifferent, yett I beleeve a litle small riggin, with what shee hes, may serve her home. Shee might have ane intire suit of new saills, and a new best bow cable. She hes anchoars and masts sufficient. She hes but 39 gunns, all the rest being disposed of. There were thre rooms of her locked, quhereof Patton hade the key. What may be there I cannot tell. I hade no farther commission for looking after her, otherwayes I should have seen ; but I cannot but wonder at Mr. Veitch and Byres, who had power sufficient, should have taken her off of Patton’s hand, and given her to another in charge, without seeing everie thing was aboard, and I cannot but as much admire that any man should have accepted of such a charge without such a review ; but it seems one and all of them still resolves to keep a hold to shutt a knavish pinn in; for I am sure than that there can be no greater covert for villains to act under. Her cargo is intirely disposed of, and all her men are either gone or dead. She hes now 8, I think, that waits on her, who does not live, I assure you, on deaff nutts, but on the best, both meatt and drink, the place affords, and att no allowance, her Captain, as they call -him, minding his own diversion ashoar only, never setting foott aboard but 316 THE DARIEN PAPERS. _ 1700. in the night time ; but I confess it is litle matter quhere he stay for any skill he hes in manadging of her, being no more of a seaman than I of a conjurer, with this difference only, that I doe not pretend to it, which he impudently would fain be thought capable of the other. Shee hes but 39 gunns; what ammunition I cannot be positive in, the powder-room being one of these that were shutt, and the gun-room the other, so that I cann give no particular accompt of her armes either; but by what I could understand from other hands, there is litle or none of either aboard her. The other room is the great cabinn, which is locked ; what may be there no bodie cann tell, but I dare say they guess truest who say litle or nothing at all in it, as also in the other two. We left two men putting over the bow one of her anchoars by the carelessness of one of the ffellows that attends in letting some ropp slipp, as Capt. Robertson told me, who was in the watter, and verie nar- roulie escaped, as also 3 more of his men and his chiefe mate. I spoke to Mr. Jenkings the navall officer there (and who hes the St. Andrew consigned to him by the Governour) that he would take care of the ship, and see that shee did not sink, assuring him the Directors would send for in a very shoart time ; but withall I hoped he would take care that what money he laid out on that head were employed accordingly, and that he would goe as narrowly to work as possible, all which he engadged to doe; and really he seems to be honest, so I doe not doubt but he will be as good as his word. He lett me see his accompts, both of what he had received of the cargo, and how dispursed, assuring it was the verie same he had sent home. I had not time to take a double of them ; but I find there is a great pairt of it readie money to M‘Lean, Dalieall, Forbes, Jamison, Patton, and Hyslop ; but however all is spent, and I beleave the ship now be on a free bottom, no bodie haying any thing to say to her, if Doctor Blair be satisfied, who must be before shee cann come from that place, as the Governour himselfe and Doctor Blair in- sinuat, and Mr. Jenkins told me plainly he knew it, and so assured me of it. This Jenkins is ane Welshman and a schollar, and still retains memorie of the antient freedom, and who it was brought you under, and entertains verie suitable sentiments of all, as he freely told me in our discourse, and gave verie apt and prettie reflections thereon. The 3d of July we sailled from Port Royall, and on the fourth ditto came at Bleufeilds, where we found the Rising Sun, the Hope, and the Speedie Return, - 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 317 the Companie’s proper ships, commanded respectively as when they sailled from Scotland. The Duke of Hammiltoun, commanded by one Russell, Duncan being dead then. Dalling himselfe was there, but his ship sold to the Spaniards, having runn her a-ground near by Carthagena. There war there likewayes the Companie’s sloup the Society, being that which was bought of the New England man who had come from St. Thomas with Captain Thomas Drummond, loaden with provisions, and for whose price the Councill of Calledonia drew bills on Wm. Borland in Boston of New England, and in which Capt. Drummond was preparing to saill to the windward, as shall be afterwards showen, the sloup, the Anna, Calledonia, which he brought from New York, was left on one of the Caimanas since the surrender of Calledonia, all the men saved. That sloop which Mr. Archibald Stewart brought from New York is sold with her cargo to Captain Ephraim Pilking- toun of Port Royall; and Captain Campbell of Fannab went immediatly from Calledonia for Barbadoes in that sloop which he hade brought from thence loaden with rhum and sugar. This is what accompt I can give of the Companie’s proper ships and sloups, and fraughted ones concerned in this last expedition. As for the present circumstances of the Companie’s ships at Bleufeilds, I dare not pretend to be too particular in them; only this I can say, that it would grieve the soull of any generous Scotsman to see them, being liker hospitalls than ships, either of trade or warr. It’s true, I beleeve a shoart time will clear them of that title, since I fear they shall have few left either sick or wholle. 1 suppose most of your cargo and armes are disposed of. They have still five or six moneths of each kind of provisions, as Captain Gibson told publickly aboard of us himselfe, though with a verie soar heart I say there is too good ground to fear these ships shall never be brought home with what men they have aboard. All or most of the landmen are gone, those that are not dead being putt ashoar by Veitch and Gibsone to shift for themselves. So all that are abroad are only a few seamen and land officers, which, as I have said, I fear shall never gett them home to Scotland, though they seemed to be verie positive in sailling in a few dayes after us ; but the truth is, I did not lay much weight to what they said on that head, having discovered them varie in their resolutions in a minut’s time, neither could I gather that they were in a condition to saill; and I am sure they were making no means to rely on it; and all the indifferent pairt of them 318 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. plainly told me they were no readdier, for any thing they saw, to saill then first when they came there, though it was then 9 or 10 weeks; and Gibson told he wanted 200 tunns of ballast, without which he could not saill. = The fifth of July, Captain Veitch, in presence of Mr. Byres, Captain Drum- mond, Mr. Archibald Stewart, and Captain Robertson, demanded a sight of what letters I hade for the Councell of Calledonia from the Directors. I confess I had no inclination of myselfe to doe it, and therfor positively at first refused it ; but Captain Veitch at last coming to charge me, as I would be answearable to do it, seeing that they dide not know but ther might be instructions in them for them to walk by, in caice of their being obleedged to quitt Calledonia, as had happened. This indeed startled me so, that though I told him I was very weall assured there was no such caution in them, the Directors being, itt seems, a litle too confident of them keeping it. However, for my exoneration, whatever might be in them, and to render them the more inexcusable, I delivered them to him, which he broke open aboard of our ship, before Captain Thomas Drummond; but, as he said, found nothing in them worthie his while, and but what he had seen before ; he putt them up in a sheet of paper, with a line on it showing what he had done. The same day I told him what I had aboard, and asked if any thing therof could be serviceable to the furthering the ships home. He demanded a tunn of brandie and 6 barrells of oatmeall, as absolutely necessarie thereto, which I gave him, and on these terms took his receipt. He was that day prevailled with to give Captain Thomas Drummond the formentioned sloup, the Societie, to sail in to the windward, to give advice to what ships of the Companies may be bound for Calledonia, of the circumstances of that place, and accordingly granted him warrant for fitting her out, which I think would be gott down in 3 or 4 dayes after I left that place. I gave Captain Drum- mond halfe a tunn brandie and 3 barrels of oatmeal, what cordage I had, and a box of candell, for his voyadge, and took his receipt for it. I was convinced it was of great concerne to the Companie such intelligence, other- wayes I hade not have done it. The 8th of June, Captain Veitch, Captain Gibson, and a great many more, came aboard of our ship, when Captain Veitch required the cargo to be putt aboard of the Rising Sun, to save the Companie, as he pretended, the return fraught. Captain Robertson made him answer, he was willing to deliver it with my consent, which I verie . i» whee ee 1700. _ THE DARIEN PAPERS. 319 willinglie agreed to, providing the commander of the ship would give such a bill of loadning for it as I had of Captain Robertson, which they absolutely refused to, only the purser’s receipt for the Companie’s use, or the use of their ships. This was what I thought myselfe not safe to doe. I then required Captain Veitch to putt it aboard of the Hope, and fitt her out immediatlie home, and I would goe aboard of her myselfe ; but on no other accompt would I deliver it, but with the proviso that they should send home one of their ships immediately with intelligence, assuring them it would be more. worth at this juncture to the Companie than severall hundred pounds ; and that therefore come of our cargo what would, I thought the 100 Ib. was weel given for carrying intelligence. At this we parted, Captain Veitch going immediately ashoar. There was nothing formall in all this matter on either side, only a bare requisition by word of mouth. Captain Gibson offered Captain Robertson, if he were quitt of his cargo, 300 pound fraught for his ship to the Bay of Campeachie. Captain Robertson referred all still to me, saying withall, that he would take his hazard of the consequences pay- ing him the 100 pound, and he was sure so would his owners. This he said, because Gibson had said to him that the Directors would not pay him his 100 pound. The day following left Blewfields. bE ACCOUNT OF WHAT MOST REMARKABLE HAPPENED TO US IN OUR VOYAGE FROM DuNDEE, IN ScoTLAND, TO New Epinpures, 1N NEw CaALz- DONIA, BEGUN THE 9TH OF Marcu, 1700, AND PERFECTED THE 16TH ~ JUNE THEREAFTER, AND THENCE BACK TO ENGLAND.* March the 9th, 1700, about twelve of the clock of the day, we sailled from Dundee, the wind at 8.W. We saluted the town with five guns. * See above, p. 308, for explanations as to this document. The blanks appear to have arisen from the inability of the copyist to read the original. The same circumstance may account for various inaccuracies. Many of the bearings and observations are evidently blundered, but the Editor could not venture to correct them. He would, indeed, have omitted these parts of the Journal, had they not been so closely interwoven with the others. 320 THE DARIEN PAPERS, 1700 March 10th, about nine of the clock forenoon, the wind ditto, we came opposite to Fraserburgh, in Aberdeenshire, where we resolved to have put a letter ashore from me.to Mr. John Bethune, Collector of Dundee, under cover of one from Captain Robertson to Mr. Alexr. Craig, minister at Fraser- burgh, who was to have conveyed to Dundee, and accordingly fired a gun for a boat, which came off towards us ; but a storm on the sudden arising, was forced to put in to the shore again, and with difficulty recover’d it. The storm continued till two or three afternoon, when the wind came W.S.W. We lay by under a mainsaill, not daring to come in with the land in the night time. To-morrow, being the 11th March, about nine o’clock morning, we made Duncan’s Bay Head, in Kaithnes, northermost place of Scotland, near to which is John of Groat’s House. About one of the clock afternoon — we entered Pentland Firth, W.S.W., which made a very high sea ; about six ditto, we came to an anchor in 18 fathoms watter, at the back of Overhoop, one of the Orkney islands, south-east of the town of Korston four miles of the town of Kirkwall, 8.E. be E., twelve miles: it blew very hard all that night. The next being the 12th, wind W.N.W.; though all the time we had but our best bore anchor in ground, being very good; a tough blewish clay. About three afternoon, we went ashore in Cava, one of the Orkney islands, where I was in the poorest habitation I ever saw in my life, many degrees worse than the meanest Indian hutt. There came also aboard of us a boat from some other of the islands, of whom our men bought some cocks and hens for the value of a halfpeny’s worth of tobacco, and the dozen of eggs for near the half of that, the cheapest indeed that ever I had seen ; and yet the poor countreymen seemed very well pleased with their mercate. On the 13th, about six o’clock in the morning, we gote up our anchor, but it being calme, we put our longboat a-head, with four oars, which continued towing of us till about ten of the clock, at which time arose a small breez W.W. be S., which brought us to Korston, in the island of Stromness, the largest of the Orkneys, where we came to an anchor about twelve of the clock, on two fathoms watter, with a hassar ashore. About one, Captain Robertson and I went ashore, and stayed till six, all which time, notwith- standing the boasted plenty of fowl, and the cheapness which I have before- mentioned, ‘importing plenty, we could not have one; so that I am apt to 1700. ' THE DARIEN PAPERS. 321 believe it is not so much the quantity of poultry in that place, as the scarcity of tobbacco or money, that makes them part with them at so easy a rate, at least to our notion of cheapness. The 14th was calm. About eleven forenoon, we went again ashore, where I sent three letters ; one to the Com- mittee of Directors, at Edinburgh ; the other two to Mr. Bethune, Collector at Dundee, and his lady—all under a cover to Mr. William Stewart, Clerk to the Customhouse at Leith, to be conveyed by him, as directed, to Kirk- wall, about twelve miles from Korston, where we were told there was a bark ready to sail to Leith. Malcolme Leisk, Skipper there of the Express, gote 19 shillings Scots ; at which time the wind came in S.S.E. and 8.E. be S., but not so much as we could get out by. The next day, being the 15th, about eleven in the forenoon, the breeze beginning to freshen, we gote our hassar aboard, and by twelve, our anchor, &c., so came to sail, the wind still at S.S.E. and 8.E. be 8.; but, the wind coming more southerly, after tacking for two or three hours, to get out of the road, to no purpose, we were forced to come to an anchor in the same place we were in, as also in hassar ashore as before. Captain Robertson and I went ashore about four of the evening. We walked to the top of a green hill, about half a mile above Korston, called Brinkie’s Brae, the highest of the kind in that part of Orkney, where he with his knife cut out his own name, L. R., and I cut out P. Md., and J. 8S. cyphered throughother. At our returne to the towne, we found the express come back again with our letters (the bark being sailed before he got to Kirkwall) ; so we left them with Bailie Graham, the inn- keeper where we stayed, to be sent by him with the first occasion for Scotland, and which all enjoyn’d him to mark below the sealings of the packet the day and hour when we sailed, and what wind we had when we loosed, which he engadged to do accordingly. The 16th being calm, in the morning, by five of the clock, we gott our hassar and best bore-anchor on board, and took the opportunity of the ebbe to warp out, which we en- deavour’d by four several wayes ; but the wind beginning to blow as before, * The next day, being the 18th, being calm weather, about two in the * A large blank space left in MS. 258 322 THE DARIEN PAPERS. - 1700. afternoon we came up with the small islands to the E. be N. of St. Kildare, when it fell so calm that we were forced to ly by, and then took some dog and killing fish. About six of the clock we were forced to let go our smal bore-anchor on thirty-five fathom water, to prevent our falling foul of the three aforementioned rocks, by reason of a great tumbling sea that drove us on them. The next day, being the 19th, about eight in the morning, we came in sight of St. Kildare, being a pretty high island, with two smaller lying by it, in the N. latt. of 58 degrees 2 min., and of E. long. 12 degrees 80 min. About noon we took our departure from thence, bearing 8.W. be S., in- tending to make the Island of Mont - one of the Caribbees in the West Indies, in the N. latt. of 6 degrees 22 min., and in W. long. 330 — degrees 30 min.,* in our voyage to Caledonia, The 20th, about noon, it beginning to whistle and blow, and the wind more southerly, yet not so hard but we continued our course till towards the sun-setting, at which time we were forced to ly by under a mainsaill, the winde 8.8.W., our ship head lying N.W. be N., and driving N. be E., we continued so that night and the next day, 21st, till about five in the evening, when we were oblidged to handle our mainsaill, and ly under a ballast mizen, as the seamen call it, the storm arising to a prodigious height, and so we lay tossing at a most terrible rate, but unwilling to return, being so far on our way of our in- tended voyage, about twenty-five leagues 8.W. of St. Kildare ; so we drove on, sometimes laying our ship about the other way, for fear of driving too far to the N., till the Tuesday following, no appearance being of fairer weather to ly at sea, or wind to carry us on our voyage, our men being mightily fatigued by the extraordinary severity of the storm, and much of our water being gone, either drunk or staved, by the rolling of the ship, we came scudding away, under a riffed foresaile, for the Orkneyes, where we came the day following, about one of the afternoon, but could not get in to Korstowne, the ordinary rode, not being able to lay it up upon the wind, so came to an anchor on five fathom water at the back of the Hollands, E.N.E. of Korston about one mile. The wind continued till Thursday the 28th, when it began to be more calme ; and on Friday it fell very calme * Sicin MS. The Island of Montserrat is 16° 45’ N. by 62° 12’ W. - 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 323 till the afternoon, when the wind came about to the S. and E.S.E. On Saturday, till the evening, it was about east, and then came about to the south, and begun to blow very hard about eleven of the clock at night; and so on, till Sunday the 31st, about two in the afternoon, when it came to the south-west and W.S.W., where it continued blowing very hard all that night. On the 28th of March we overhall’d our hulk; our brandie we found in very good condition, but great confusion amongst our meale by reason of the insufficiency of our caskes, some having given way, two wholly staved; we saved as much meale as filled up one we had empty by us, and put all to the best order we could again. We emptied much of our water, which we found to be turned soure by reason, as we thought, of being in claret wine hogs- heades, and filled up anew (after having seasoned them and them). At Korston, the next day Capt. Robertson and I went ashoare, wher we understood from Bailie Graham that our letters left with him were gone by the same hand formerly mentioned, being put in there a day or two after we sailed, by contrary windes. We likewise found there one Thomas Tylzer, a pillot to one James Jarvey, who then lay at Kirkwall, to take in the Bishop’s teind corn, and afterwardes to go to Leithe. We gave him some letters to Mr. Bethun, in Dundie, his lady, and Mr. Alex. Robertson, their date 28th, to the Directores, Mr. Houston at Edinburgh, and Mr. Wm. Stewart, clerk to the Custome-House at Leithe (to whom all were inclosed), that daye’s date. I observed the 29th and 30th dayes of March, two of the borrowing dayes, as we ordinarily terme them, were extraordinary fair, contrary to the common character of them. Ther is no tree in Orkney that growes higher than the wall it growes by, and none otherwayes. Neither will any ratt live in a small island called Grimsey, betwixt Hoy and Orkney. There is a common saying in Orkney, that there is no man almost so poor therin but what hath a goose and a pigge or hog at his fire every day. I can affirm the certainty of it in person’s houses of all rankes, wherever I hapened any time of my being there. I observed also that a starre’s being near the moon is a signe of bad weather ; and that which they call the pretty dancers, never failes of having aboundance of musik afterwards, especially if it happen a little before the night preceding the change of the moon ; they are a certaine sort of light partie-couloured cloudes that fly the firmament, so 324 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. observeable by their reflex that you can see almost below as well as with moon- shine. I observe a Saturdaye’s change, or Sundaye’s prime, never or seldom misses of a storm, and that ordinary observe of a fair Thursday before the change is very fallible, not having noticed any better or more seasonable than the preceeding Thursday before the last two changes. The 20th or 21st, Captain Robertson reduced the seamen’s allowance of bread four pound to — six men, whereas before each five had so much. I gave away two rings blew and gold, the embrossed gold, with “Let not absence banish love” for the motto. I must not forget, if it please God to bring me back to Scotland, to buy two such again. The first was very boisterous, wind W.S.W. ; towards the evening it came into the S., and blew very hard all that night till the second ; about three of the clock morning, it was at west, with pretty moderate weather ; about 2 afternoone, it came E.S.E.; toward the evening it was S., and blew very hard all that night ; the third wind was very variable but pretty fresh, the which was also variable, moderate with some rain. It begun to incline easterly afternoone, so that about four we unmored, and rodd by our small bore-anchor only, designing, God willing, to saile with the morning’s ebb; but the next morning, the wind coming west and W.S.W. blowing prettie fresh, we were forced to morre againe as before. The 6th was pretty calme, till toward the evening, the wind begun to blow at two 8.S.E., S.E. and be S., but still moderatly, though with all appearance of an easterly wind, which made us again unmorre, waiting the morning’s ebb, which accord- ingly we took to get out by, though with great difficulty, falling altogether calm ; so that, we were from 9 morning till three afternoon in clearing the point of Hoy, not above nine miles from whence we loosed ; about that time the wind begun to freshen at 8.S.E., but continued not so for above an hour or two. Coming into S. and be W.S. and 8. and be E., very variable all night till 2 or 3 next morning, when we had the rock called the Stack and Skelly of board side bearing N.W., or N.W. be N., when the wind came in to W. and be S. and W., blowing extraordinary hard, so that ther was no possi- bility of our clearing the Lewis, which oblidged us to take about and stand back whence we came, which we did about 11 or 12 the 9th day, and had difficulty enough to get in (the ebb tid making about against us,) notwithstanding the strong wind we had favouring us. We came to an anchor neare in the same place as before, and no sooner than the wind came in W.N.W. and N.W. be N. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 325 and blew very hard all that night, so that we reckoned ourselves very happy in having got in so good time, for had we been at sea we would not probably but have been driven through the Pentland Firth, which would have proven very hard to us to have dealt with a northerly or N.W. wind making so great a sea in that place. The next day, being the 10th, was moderat fair weather, till about eleven or twelve at night the wind begun to blow at S.W. and 8.8. W., and on the 11th, about three or four morning, it rained, and so all that day ; the next day was pretty calme and fair, till towards the evening it begun to blow very hard at 8. and 8.S8.W., so that I lay ashore all that night at the Laird of Korston’s house. The 13th was pretty moderat weather, wind variable; about 11 of the clock I brought Korston and his lady aboard, and went ashore with them afterwards to Baillie Graham’s at Stromness till night, and after having seen the lady home came aboard the nixt day. The wind being 8.8.E. we got up our anchors, and with the first of the ebb, which was between twelve and one, came out to sea. We had a pretty fresh gale all that night and the next day. The wind coming into the E. about eight o’clock morning, we were up with the Furiowhead in Strannaver in Scotland, and against seven that evening we had the Bouling-head, the eastermost point of the Lewes bearing S. three leagues’ distance, when the wind came to the E.N.E. ; at ten it came again to E., at twelve to E.S.H., and so varying till four of the morning 16th, when it came again E., and we had the three small islands of St. Kildair, as we called them, bearing N. of us about a league distance, and the northmost head of the island of the Lewes five leagues S. from us. About six we had the great Island of St. Kildare, bearing W. and be S. ten leagues distance ; about two o'clock we were up with it, lying off of our star- board side. About three leagues distance, W.N.W., we took our departure a second time, thence bound, through God’s permission, for Caledonia, in our way designing to make Mevis, one of the Carribees, in the West Indies, in the N. latitude of 16 degrees and 42 minuts, and W. longitude 320 deg. 40 min.,* stireing 8.W. to make some of the Western Islands, the wind E.N.E. with E. and be E. and E., varying so all that afternoon. The ensuing night and day at twelve o'clock, 17th, by observation, we were in the latitude of 56 deg. 52 min. our course, and the wind as before twelve ; 18th, by obser- * Sicin MS. The name is subsequently spelt correctly Nevis. 326 THE DARIEN PAPERS. ~ 1700. vation, 52 and 40 minuts. The 19th was very boisterous and rainy, wind S.E. and §.S.E.; about four o’clock in the evening it came calme, and con- tinued so till Sunday about two o'clock, most of which time we lay by. Again reviued the hulk, and found a half-barrel staved ; we saved but little of the meal ; there were several barrels brused, and many had cast their hoops. We endeavoured to secure all again, and put them all to the best rights we could. There was a certaine sort of a slimy substance, somwhat oyly, straked green and white, with some sable broun, which floated (while we lay be- calmed) by our sides. Most of our men were of oppinion it was Spermaceti, while shoat, as they called, tho’ indeed I thought otherwise, having boiled some of it for a trial, which then seemed altogether as if it had been some sort of herb or grass, such as commonly gathers amongst the stones or rocks — by the sea-side, for much like what is commonly a-top of fresh-water springs. I had never seen so high a sea as we had continue with so long a calme. We had an observation on the 20th in 53 deg. and 34 min. ; and our seamen reckoned themselves about fifty leagues to the westward of Signet Head in Irland. The 21st, about two a’clock afternoon, the wind began to blow a Yeulle gale at 8.8.W. and 8.W. be S. ; we stood away west, close as we could hale upon the wind, or W. and be N., till six of the clock, when the wind 8.W. and §.W. and be W., blustering, rainy weather ; we steer’d away N.W. and N.W. and be W.; at eight a’clock it shifted to the S. and S. and be W., so we stood W.S.W. and W. be S.; it continued so all night. About one o'clock 22d, we see a ship to leeward of us from our stareboard quarter. We thought to have hailed her, but the wind shifting more westerly, obliged us to tack about the other way, and missed her. It came immediatly calme, with some raine, and with such a swelling sea running contrary any wind that was, and the drift of the clouds and showrs, that never any of our crew had seen the like ; for my own part, I never have in the greatest storme I ever saw. We could make but little conjecture what might occasione it; most of us expected the wind from that airtt whence the sea came, N.W. and N.N.W., and a strong hard gale of too. For my part, I was of the mind we had got by Brazil, or some such inchanted place. I had often heard of it, and of the high sea towards the W. of Irland, but never seen or felt it before, nor never desires to do again in a calme, neither wishes any, so litle sea-proof as I am, of my friends to be trasted with it ; it is the worst I could wish my 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 327 most particular enemies. The wind continued varying all the rest of the day betwixt the 8.S.W. and W., or W. and be N. ; rainy sometimes, and some- times almost calme, till the 23d. About four in the morning, it came to N.E. and be N., so we steered away 8S.W. be S. About twelve o’clock it veered about to the E.N.E., and so to the E. ; the 24th, it came to the N.N.E., rainy, thick, hazy weather ; we steered away 8.S.W. till the Saturday the 27th ; about eight o'clock, the wind shifted to the E.N.E. again, and we altered our course S. and be W. Still thick and hazy weather. At 12 o'clock we stood away S., the wind as before, till 2 o'clock the next morning the 23d, it came with our course the same till twelve, when, by observation, we were in the latitude of 41 deg. 53 min. N. The afternoon was very uncertaine weather, some hard severe squalls, the wind varying betwixt the N. and W., our course 8.8. W., till six of the clock morning 29th, we steered away S. till eight, and till twelve S. and be W., the wind as before, when, by observation, we found our- selves in the N. latitude of 39 deg. 23 min. We stood away again S. be W., the wind as before, till ten o’clock at night it came W. beS.; wind S. at twelve ; wind W.S.W.; course 8. be E. Six the next morning wind 8.W. be W., course S.S.E. ; at eight it. blew so very hard we were forced to ly by under a main sail, till twelve the wind came N.W., and we stood away S. be W. till six ; from that time till twelve S. and be W. again, and so ended Aprill, with the borrow- ing days I observed wanting in March, in the rear of it. All our folks thought it very extraordinary to see so much wind and rain together last so long in that time of the year in that latitude, with such a high sea, little inferiour to that we had at the back of Irland. I have notted before our seamen’s reduction in bread; the 15th or 16th of this month they were reduced accordingly in their beef, and to three English pints of water a-day ; tho’ some days afterwards, upon further consideration of what pease was aboard, (and the men grumbling extremely.) they were allowed pease broath with their beef. I judge our course since our departure will hardly amount to a S.S.W. The reason we keeped so much southerly was, as our seamen said, was to get sooner in the trade-wind ; and likewise that the further eastward we should be freer of the calmes, which is the great thing to be feered betwixt the variable winds and the trade-winds, as it were ; and that the further to the westward the more subject to them. But indeed this was not my oppinion ; both the little experience I had in that passage, and the common 398 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. reports I had gote of seamen I esteemed more capable than any we we aboard, perswading me thereto. May the first was very boistrous, wind about W.N.W. till twelve o'clock ; we stood away S.8.W. and 8. be W., except in the time of some violent squalls we were forced to go before the wind ; we had then an observation, in 35 deg. 56 min. N. latitude ; and in the time of observing, we saw an tortoise sleeping a-tope the water. We saw that morning about eight, some oranges, which helped to confirm our seamen in their belief of not being above 2 deg. or so to the eastward of the westward islands, as they then reckoned them- selves. About one of the clock the wind blew so violently with so high a sea that we were again obliged to ly by under a main-sail ; it continued so till four the next morning, when growing a litle calmer, we came again to sail S.S.W., wind as before. At twelve we had an observation, 34 deg. 6 min. ; we steered S. and §. be W. till the next day, at that time wind W. and W. be N.; we had then an observation in 32 deg. 10 min. The wind was at W., and came to W. be S. Till the 4th, at twelve, we stood as before. At eight that evening we steered away S.W. The 5th, at twelve o’clock, we had an obser- vation in 28 deg. 31 min., our course the same, wind N.N.W. till ten of the clock evening, it came N.E. be N. ; at four the next morning, E.N.E. ; we then reckoned ourselves in the trade, tho’ it blew very faintly. That morning we discovered the theevery of our saillers in the using of our half-barrels of meal that was in the hold, for making of pottage and broase. Capt. Robert- son brought the most guilty to the gangway forit to have drubbed them ; but on my intercession spared them. The most of the crew were concerned in it. This made us secure all our scuttles, lock and seal them. At twelve that day we had an observation in 27 deg. 50 min. It continued very easy wind ; our course 8.W. The 8th, we had an observation in 26 deg. 30 min. ; our course continued till the which at twelve o’clock, when we were, by observation, in 25 deg. 22 min. We stood away W.S.W., wind E. and be N. I had never observed the trade-wind to blow as it did now, falling still almost towards the heat of the day. This morning we saw the first flying fish. The 10th we had an observation in 42 min. The 11th, 23 deg. 56 min.; our course still W.S.W. The wind still to the northward, and calmest towards the heat of the day ; on the contrary, freshest betwixt eight in the evening and four in the morning, both which appeared to me. something singular in 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 329 the trade-wind, it blowing ordinarly from the E. to the 8.S.E., and highest towards the heat of the day. I judged it might be by reason of the sun’s neareness to the northern tropick ; but none of us aboard could determine it, never haveing had the occasion before to make the like observation. That evening we catched a very strange sort of a fish; our gunner said he had seen the like before in Newfoundland, and called it a squid ; it was not so big as a hering, had no bone or ffine in it; a beake much like a haulk, and both over and under it hung long pieces of flesh almost like those of a turkie cock ; it drew in his bill just like a tortoise ; it hada tail shaped like a harpoon, all one intire finn, and sweems and flyes with it foremost. On the second we had an observation in 22 deg. 51 min. ; then changed our course to W. and be 8S. The 14th we had an observation in 22 deg. and 10 min. ; which latitude we then discovered the mistake I have observed in the differ- ence of our quadrants, and found it proceeded from the wrong position of the vines [?] of the quadrant. It was almost calme about noon this day ; neither blew so fresh the preceeding night as it used todo. This night, at eight of the clock, we had an observation by the nocturnal in 22 deg. 4 min., which “agreed very well with that we have at noon before. The 15th we endea- voured to observe as ordinarly, but to no purpose, the sun being so near our , so that it behooved us to use the star till we were got some degrees to the southward, and so further from the sun. This morning about six, we saw a boubie 400 leagues from land, as we there reckoned ourselves. From noon we altered our course to W.S.W. About eight of the clock evening we had an observation of the star, 21 deg. 40 min. The ensueing night was rainy, so that, fearing squalls, about 2 o’clock morning we handed top and top-gallant saills till day-light. We were the more afraid, and so more cautious, in respect we had gote no rain, nor appearance of any squalls since we came into the trade-wind. The 17th we had observation by the starr in 19 deg. 55 min. The next day we got the wind into the E. and E. be &.; somewhat squally, thick, fogy weather, and less wind than formerly, especially in the night-time, so that I believe the weather alters very much according to the sun’s being in the S. or N. of us, being both more inclineable to rain and calmes, particularly 5 or 6 deg. near the Equinoctial, than the sun if it be in the moveing towards the Tropick. On the 19th, we were, by observa- tion, in the latitude of 19 deg. N., 2 deg. 50 min. 8. of the sun, its declina- 2T 330 THE DARIEN PAPERS | 1700. tion being 21 deg. 50 min. This day was very calme, and the first that I had seen any Tropick bird in this voyage. The 20th was somewhat rainy ; however we got an observation in 18 deg. 29 min. The 21st the wind came — in 8.E., and begune to blow freshest towards the heat of the day ; at twelve we had an observation in 17 deg. 53 min., and then steered away W. be 8. At four that evening I took a vomitt for a violent pain in my head. 22d, the wind came in to E. again, and E. be N., but continued to freshen towards noon. We had an observation in 17 deg. 46 min. ; we steered away again W.S.W. We saw that evening a tooth in the firmament ; it is of the colour of a rainbow, resembling a tooth hanging from the lower part of a cloud. We stood a long time by our topesail halliards ; but it seperate gradually as it gathered, without either wind or rain. The shours so near the sun betwixt him and the Equinoctial, he going towards the Tropick, are for the most part very soft, and so less to be feared than when the sun and you are in different sides the Equator. This day likewise we overhalled our meal and flour that was of the ship’s provision, and found it not packed, only throwen loose in, so we repacked it, the whole hogshead ; in half an hour was our beef barrells full, some of them wanting two or three tyre, by which- we understood our provisions were far short of what we expected, and of what the owners had given them out to be. Where the cheat lay time can only discover ; but our seamen suffers in the meantime. The 23d blew pretty fresh ; we were, by observation at noon, in 17 deg. 3 min., and then stood away W. and be §. A little southerly, about that time, we see a flock of men-of-war, which being land fouls, and never lighting in the water, made us believe might be nearer the shore than any of our reckonings made us to be, and therefore to look well out for the more security. This whole day was thick, but in the after- noon rainy, so that we lowered all our three saills expecting wind, though the rain proved altogether soft ; from eight to twelve we stood away S.W. be W., — and thence next morning W. and be 8. again, and from that time W. At twelve, 24th, we were, by observation, in 46 deg. and 45 min., so we continued our course to make Antego or Mevis, the first lying in latitude 16 deg. 32 min. ; the other in 16 deg. and 42 min. ; but about a deg. and 16 min. west- ward, about six of the evening, we came over ashore, as we could judge it by ; the colour of the water, the same as the shade of a rainbow makes on the ‘superfices of the water. It was about two or three cablelength S., and N. about 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 331 the third or fourth part breadth. What water may be on it I cannot tell ; but we came just over the middle of its end, we drew about 11 feet ; we had no leadline ready at hand, and the ship having a fresh way through, and all our saills drawing, we were loath ‘to bring her to. How far it might be from land I shall, God willing, show, and how it lyes from the nearest shores. Some were of oppinion that it was that called the Vegil, laid down both in the plain and Mercatas carts, at about 40 or 50 leagues distant from Antego, much in the latitude we then reckoned ourselves in; indeed, I think it is that shoal laid down in the drafts off of Barbuda, seven or eight leagues S. However, the night being very dark and hazy, we lay by the N.E. till the moon was an hour or two high, and then stood on our course westward. Hasy sail till four the next morning, when we saw sail to the leeward of us about a mile, who lay by. We at first supposing she might be a rogue, (it being the fairway for such waiting ships bound for the islands, that they may supply themselves of what they want,) stood close upon a wind till day, and likewise till we gote ourselves in some better and clearer posture of defence ; but in half an hour we made her clearly to be a pink, and so bore down upon her. She was from London, bound for Mountserat, designed to make Antego, and ly by. Because her reckoning was out, she could give us no account of that forenamed shoal; and made sail- along with us again, in hopes to see the land or night. At twelve a’clock, we found we had gone no better than W.N.W., we being, by observation, then in 17 deg. 12 min., 27 miles to the northward of what we was the day preceeding, Whether it was a current or bad steerage had done it I cannot tell. Indeed, I hold still our course should have been more southerly, However, we then stood away W.S.W. again, close upon the wind 8.W. be W.S.W., S.W. be S., with two hours S.S.W., four hours S.W. be 8. again, and then W, be &., hopeing to make the land, it being now brave, clear weather, whereas for the two or three days before, it had continued so fogy we could not see over a league or two in head, tho’ we had still got an observation ; at twelve o’clock Captain Robert- son reckoning us out about eight of the clock 25th, and his first mate James Knights. This day, the 26th, about the same hour, our second mate and Gundy, who were the only others that keept reckonings aboard, had yet 2 or 3 deg. of longitude further to run as the other head. I judge by my own weak calculation, which I have not the boldness to call a Journal, I think of 332 THE DARIEN PAPERS 1700. seing it this night about seven or six o'clock, making it Mevis, at 40 and some od min. of meridian distance, 53 deg. of longitude, and 41 deg. 4 or 5 of latitude from St. Kilda, whence we took our departure ; at noon we were, by observation, in 16 deg. 40 min. We continued our course W. be 8. till ten o’clock that night, and then stood away W.S.W. till four next morning; about five we made land, and then stood away till eight or ten S.W. to make it clear, and then found it to be Deseada ; it lyes in the N. latitude of 16 deg. and 30 min. or thereabouts. Guardelupa lyes about three or four miles distant from it, streaching S.S.E. and N.N.W. We lay by Antego that night ; next morning we came to sail, and so by Montserate and Redona ; and by twelve o’clock came to Mevis. Our boat was sent ashore to enquire for my brother ; but met in the way Coll. Alexander Hamilton, Lievt. Stewart, Mr. Miliken, and some other Scots gentlemen coming aboard, who perswaded us to come to an anchore, for before we designed only to have stood off and on till we had understood the Lievt.-General’s mind. I went ashore with them and Coll. Hamilton ; and I tooke horse imediatly, and went to the Lieyt- General for to demand wood and water. He used us with all the civility imaginable ; and seemed to regret mightily his being obliged to deny us what we wanted by reason of his particular instructions from the King to the contrair ; but withall told us he would wink at it if we could find a way to - procure it within his government without his orders. He expected likewise, he said, dayly a countermand from England were to march with all the force in his government (which extends through all the English islands to the leeward of Barbados) in our aid against the Spaniards. However we took leave of him, after returning his complement ; and I came and lay that night with Coll. Hamilton at his house ; the next morning with Lievt. Stewart and Miliekine. Came to an anchore there, having saluted: the fort with five guns, getting as many in return. We imediatly went ashore to wait on the Governour, the Count Delakayan,* a knight of the order of St. Lewis, who received us with all imaginable kindness and civility, giving us freedom to purchass whatever we wanted that his government could afford us, and made us offer of wine and brandy at very easy rates; we have what water we desired. I went on the 30th of May in the evening to take my leave of * See above, p. 309. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 333 the Governour, and thank him for his courtisie to us ; and made him offer of any thing that we might have aboard that could serve him, which he refused with a great deal of civility, and told me he expected no such thing of us, neither was that the motive of his kindness to us, it proceeding from an intire love he had for our countrey, as, he was sure, all or most of the French had ; and assured me withall, that he would never be wanting in the like or any other occasion to evince it. Coll. Hamilton and the other Gentlemen went home to Mevis that evening, after coming aboard of us for some time, when we drunk pretty heartily, and parting we gave them five guns. The next morning we got up our anchore ; and coming just to sail, we observed one Mr. Cunningham, our countreyman and very good friend, in a sloop coming from Statia to St. Christopher, where Mr. Cunningham leaves my brother ; and Livt. Lye hailled him so as he came aboard. He made very firme offers of friendship to us ; and at parting told me that our Company at any time should have credite from him for £500 sterling. We came about ten of the clock to the Figtree to the leeward of Bastar, where we was before. This is another of the French forts ; and the Governour made the same civil offers that had been made us at Bastar. But we wanted nothing, only designing to see Major M‘Arthure, who the day before had trysted us thither that we might be particularly informed anent the island of St. Thomas, whither we were bound, which as soon as we had got we took our leave, and came aboard ; and so keeping Statia and Saba, two islands belonging to the Dutch, on our starboard, we stood away W. and be N. and W.N.W. for the Virgins. The great product of the Carribee Islands are sugar. They have some litle tobbacco, some few sheep, goats, cows, horses ; several sorts of foul, as hens, turkies, gees, duks. They have swine also, and plenty of fishes. They have several sorts of fruits as moss-millions, water-millions, cherries of two or three sorts, tho’ none like our Brittish. They have oranges, lemons, limes, tamarins, pine aples, plantanes, bonanoes, and severall sorts of roots, as potatos, cassadder, carats, turnnipes. They have both green-kail and cabbages. Mevis is altogether under the English government, as also Antego, Montse- rate, and third part of St. Christophers, the two parts being subject to the French, as likewise Guardalupa, St. Dominica, Martinique, Marigallant, and Margareta. Saba is the Hamburghers’; and Statia the Hollanders’.. The inhabitants of all these islands of the several nations they belong to or Black States Land. 334 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. We have a great many very good friends on the Carribee Islands who could supply us from time to time with provisions to Caledonia, particularly Collonel Alex. Hamilton in Mevis, Major John M‘Carthur, Mr. Burtan, Irishmai Captains Bisk and Biskot, and a great many others in St. Christopher. ‘So that I judge it were very convenient our Company had correspondence settled amongst thir islands, and credit, so as they might provide from time to time stores of provisions such as we may want, and have them in readiness by them when called for. I had notice at St. Christophers of great many the leeward, which put us on our guard; and to make all things in the best order for our owne defence. I was likewise informed of two engadgments had been betwixt our people in Caledonia and the Spain- yards, but with advantage on our side: but withall, that we were blocked up . by sea by fourteen men of war. Some said that our fort was taken by them ; and that a Dutch sloop should have seen the Spanish standard fiying on it, and all our garison in fire. That Captain Gibson pinnace had been taken away by six of his own men. That the Pope had a design of paunding: all his Church plate to hire troops to drive us out of our Settlement ; and some of the English said that Monsiur Arnew, the great marine French engeiner who had been at St. Christophers lately, his settleing the Isle of Ash was only a pretence, his business being really to assist the Spaniards. This last I am not apt to believe upon severall considerations ; the others came here by the way of Barbados, Querisade, Jamaica, and St. Thomas, and by the Speedwel friggot, who had been cruiseing on the coast of Carthagena, and who says the Spaniards would gladly have engaged him to go against us. What truth may be in all this I shall not determine. We saluted the fort at Nevis first when we came in with five guns ; and at our coming away the Lievt.-General with as many. I sent a letter by Collonell Hamilton to the Court of Directors at home, dated the 30th May 1700, wherein I referred as to the above reports to Coll. Hamilton’s letter to the Duke of Hamilton. I had a letter from him of the same date to Mr. Alex. Hamilton in Caledonia. I had two letters from Major M‘Arthur, one to Capt. Daniel M‘Kay, the other to Capt. James Gibson, both in Caledonia. I had a letter of recom- mendation from him to one Mr. Abraham Tessemaker at St. Thomas; and another from Mr. Burt in Bastar, in St. Cristophers, to Minheer Vanbel, Director-General to the Brandenburg Company at St. Thomas. My brother desired me to inclose my letters for him, under cover, to the Honourable 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 335 William Mead, Esquire, Commissioner for His Majestie’s Customes at Mevis. I settled a correspondence from myself with Coll. Hamilton and Major John M‘Arthur, the French Deputie-Governour at Figtree, a litle to the leeward of Old Road. The English garison at St. Christopher was displeased at us for not saluteing his fort ; but when he was told that we did not resolve to come to an anchore, he was satisfied,.and used Robertson very kindly, giveing him a letter to Mr. Mackay. 1 mind Livetenent-General Fox, when, as I have said before, would wished his first orders from England might be to go against the Spaniards or in our assistance, put in that by way of caution, that he would not be commanded by our Council. Captain Dunbar dyed at Nevis, and was buried the 28th May, while we were there ; all the ships fired at his burying ; he was buried in the churchyard of Nevis. The parson there is a Scotsman, one Mr. Morison, good-brother to one James Gentleman in Mouross. That Dunbar was of Scots parents, and a great lover of our countrey, very much regreted by every body. There was one Capt. Elles that gave us five guns at our coming away; we returned his complement with as many; he is of Scots parents likwise ; and his ship belongs to London. There was lying at the old road of St. Christopher one Captain Hally in a smal snow, who had been out about two years in the discovery of the N.W. passage by the South Seas. His orders were to the 55th deg. of S. latitude; but he could reach no further, as he said, for mountains of ice, than 54. He gave an account of the sicklyness of Barbados, and that the Governour there, upon that account, advised him not to make any stay, but be gone with all haste, it being so very rageing. He says he has found out clearly the variation of the compass ; if true, a very profiteable discourse. Barbuda belongs intirely to Coll. Cathrington, the General of the English Carribbee Island. The Creols before mentioned are alwise very pale complexioned. I suppose it is through the excessive heat, which dryes up all their moisture both in their vegetation within their mother’s womb and when young and tender after birth ; but otherways they are indifferently well both as to shape and features of face, tho’ they never wear any thing but limber stuffs about their bodies, any thing that is stiff being altogether intolerable in these warme countreys. These are the natives of the land of white parents. The Mulletos are of one white and another black parent, but themselves of a dark copper colour, darker than that of our Darien Indians, and nothing so pleasant to our ey. 336 THE DARIEN phaio cs 3 1700. Mr. Mackay was four or five days at Figtree, where he watered and took i in from Major M‘Carty to the value of £21 sterling, on whom he had credite for £500 sterling. He was likwise at Nevis ; and was refused water, M‘Arthur told me he had heard he was chased back from the Caledonian coast to Jamaica, and had spoke with one who had seen him there, and satis- fied him of it by giveing him the very particular marks of Mr. Mackay. That man said likwise that he was design’d to returne along with one Captain Stewart or Drummond, who was sent from Caledonia to gather up w men belonging to the Company were there, and to look after the ships. judged this might be Capt. Campbel of Fannab. Major M‘Arthur sent what letters Mr. Mackay had left with him for Scotland by my countreyman Andrew Leitch, about two months before our arrivall, so that he thought they might be at home by the time we were there. I saw a letter Major M‘Arthur had writen by Mr. Mackay, directed to Captain Lovat, wherein, among some other things, he advertises him of pirates being to leeward. The great reason why we called all these islands was to get particular information of St. Thomas, no body aboard knowing any thing of it, neither our drafts given us any clear account of it, rather giveing us to imagine those Virgines were dangerous ; but being there we choose to water, both because it is better and St. Tomas being sickly, we were resolved to make no stay in it. The 1st, about seven in the morning, we made Virgin Gourda—Spanish Town, as the English call it—bearing N.W. of us eight leagues’ distance ; at twelve a’clock, by observation, we were in 18 deg. 12 min., which I reckon the latitude of that part of the islands called Drake’s Gate in the Dutch drafts ; but it was a mistake of the place though not of the latitude, taking Feugal, or Bird Island, for another ; so we fell a great way to the leeward of St. Thomas, notwithstanding all the instruction Capt. Robertson had gott at Figtree, in St. Christopher, from a Dutchman who was an ordinary pillote in that place. I must confess the place is hardly found, and wonderfully ill navigate ; and a great many rocks being off and about it, especially to the leeward, so that I think it not safe for any stranger to venture to go in there without a pillote. Had we steered as we ought, we had got in three or four afternoon : but falling to the leeward it was so far the next day before we gote in. We saluted the fort with five guns, and were returned with as many, tho’ not imediatly, they being all at church. There was an English - : nti ni | im 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 337 man of war there, but we did not notice him. I went presently ashore to Minheer Vanbell’s, the Director-General to the Brandenburgh Company at St. Thomas. He was extraordinary civil. I dined with him very gentilly. He told me Capt. Thomas Drummond had been there the time that Admiral Benbow was there; and dined sometimes aboard of him, being very intimate with him. That he left St. Thomas, bound for Caledonia, the 28th of October 1699 ; and that he left letters with him, which he had sent by way of London, under cover to his correspondent there. He told me likewise an correspondence settled with Mr. Paterson, and likewise of Jamaica his being there aboard of Stark’s ship ; and that they waited anchors, having cut them at Antego, and were supplyed here by Mr. Smith, brother to him that ran away with the Company’s money ; but this Smith was not here while I was at St. Thomas, being gone to Statia a week before, as his wife told me. Minheer Vanbell likewise let me see a letter from Carthagena, wherein he told of an hundred men from that place under the command of that Governour ; and as many from Panama, under the Presedent thereof ; and 1500 from Portobello, to rendezvouse at the Isle of Pinnes, to go against our Colony in Caledonia: He likewise says, that the Governour had sent to the Count De Hamilton, as they call the Governour of Caledonia, to demand the Fort within three days, otherwise they would drive them out of it by fire and sword ; but he returned them answer, that he had designed to prove his fortune, hopeing in God to deliver them out of their hands. Minheer Vanbel had been twenty-three or twenty-four years in Old Spain, and gives a very favourable character of them. He and I took horse about four a’clock at night, and went out of town to Mr. Abraham Vestentaker’s, to whom I was recommended by Major M‘Arthure, and who I had seen formerly in New York, then bound for Caledonia. He told me of four ships with provisions that were gone down to Caledonia, particularly of one Smith, who he had seen at Statia, laden with corn. I see his sugar-work, kettles, and milns. It is observable the distance niger keep’d, who held my stirrop on his right knee, and reaching out his hand to take hold on it, as if he had been affraid to come near me. I heard an Inglish parson preach there, but a Dutch clerk, and who did all his business in that Janguage ; the Parson said the prayer which we ordinarly have after sermon before, and after only that which we call the blessing. Minheer Vanbel told me of a plote the negros had of . 20 338 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. poysoning the whites on the island; and had actually poysoned some. There were some of them apprehended, and were to be rack’d and burnt; others had fled to the mountains, and there was twenty pieces of eight set as" the price of their head ; and a proclamation the day before we came in here that no niger should come to St. Thomaston without a pass from his mas- _ter, which he was to deliver to the head of the factories whose nation he was of, or to whom he belonged, and get a certificat therof to return to his master again. I forgote to tell that the letter I had seen of Mr. Vanbell’s says, that the Scots are very well settled, but have both but few men and little victuals, so that they are confident to drive or starve them out. . Minheer Vanbell’s letters tell of thirteen small ships and four great ships, designed by the Spaniard to block us up by sea. The Captains of the ships gone down for Caledonia with provisions were Alden, Burrington, Scot, in which was Mr. Stewart and Smith, and three fly-boats imediatly from Amsterdam. The English man-of-war that lay ther was the Margareta, one Billingslie Com- mander. He had been sent by Lievt.-General Fox from Nevis, to demand St. Thomas in the King of England’s name, the Danes having forfault it in not keeping the conditions on which they got it from King Charles the Second, which were, to harbour no Pirates, but to protect all the English subjects from them. This Billingslie took out a Madagascar Pirate that had come home upon the indemnity granted to them by the King of England by: Captain Warner, out of this harbour, just under the Fort’s guns. The Governour did not hinder him, but has sent home to acquaint his Master with it ; but, how- ever, in the meantime the ship, upon a hearing of the owners at St. Christo- phers before the admiralty, the ship is returned to St. Thomas again. Coll. Deparstar, at New York, is the principal concerned in her, and she had my Lord Ballamon, the Governour of New England, his pass ; but, however, the King’s indemnity was sufficient to have protected him from any English men- of-war. There was a ship loaden here with provisions from New England. Mr. Borland, principal owner; commander’s name, Mr. Gordon, bound for Cale- donia. They would have gone along with us, but was obliged to call at Querisaw ; having entered his ship at Boston for Jamaica, his calling at Querisaw was only a pretext, that he might say at Jamaica he had disposed of his cargo there. The Governour of St. Thomas’ name is Mr. Sereure. We gave him 3 guns at our departure, and he returned ys as many. I see Min- -_.. “J Un eee eo 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 339 heer Pedro Vanbel has cotton-works and garden. He designs to go live at St. Christopher. He was making the frame of a house at St. Thomas, to carry there. He has a considerable plantation there. St. Thomas is a close harbour, the best I have seen in America. The people there are most Dutch, some are French, and a few Danes, tho’ under the Danish Government. They are fearing much a rupture between the Crowns of Sweden and Denmark, and wants nothing but a confirmation thereof, with an account of our sure settlement in Caledonia, to come down to us. All the French Protestants throughout the Windward Islands from Caledonia (I mean windward) will certainly come to us ; many Dutch and Scots, and, I am persuaded, as many English as we please to entertain. Mr. Abraham Tossemaker, who speaks very good English, married to a daughter of General Stevenson’s, sometimes Governour of New York, and a considerable rich man, and very intelligent as to the business of planting, wants nothing but certain word of our being there to come to us. I promised to write him, as also to Minheer Vanbel, who I am apt to believe inclines that way himself, either particularly for himself or for a Brandenburgh factory, which he told me he has writen to his constituent at home, about, and does not doubt their ready concurrence in it, were they assured of our firm fitting in Caledonia. The product of St. Thomas is as of the other Carribbee Islands. It has no water but what comes from the heavens, and is very subject to drought and concussions of the earths. We left this place the 4th June 1700, steering 8.8.W. and S. be S., till we got clear of the Leeward Islands. The 5th, we stood away 8.W., having cleared all, and then §.W. and be W., from 12 that day, to make the high land of Santa Martha, 40 leagues in within the land from Carthagena, E. be N. My instructions were to have called at Portmorane in the east end of Jamaica ; but understanding of the pyrates that were to the leeward upon the Spanish Coast, and the bad understanding between the Spaniard and us, I judged it not safe, because from St. Thomas our course to Jamaica was right alongst Hyspaniola, Cuba, and Portorico, and right in the fairway of our enemies ; as also, if the wind should chance to the southward of E., and we obliged to stand-over from Jamaica (upon the account of the current setting to the W.) S.S.E., we should hardly stood it over, at the least with difficulty and much time, which I esteemed would be of more disadvantage to our voyage than anything we could gain by that intelligence I could have 340 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. at Jamaica, and that was the great reason my instructions bore me to call there. It is true, I was likewise to have enquired about the state of the St. Andrew, but I was persuaded long ere this time the Company cannot want sufficient information in that respect from Capts. Drummond, Mackay, Camp- bel, Mr. Stewart, and many others who have been there about the Company's -business for sometime together, long ere now. The 6th, we were by observa- tion in 14 deg. 41 min. We continued our course on the 7th. By observa- tion we were in 13 deg. 37 min. We stood the same course till 6 that evening : we then steered away 8.W. till 5 next morning, the 8th ; then we stood away S.S.W. We were by observation, at 12 o’clock, in 11 deg. 53 min., something to the southward of Santa Martha, so we found that the current had drove us considerably to the westward. We stood then away S. be W., to make the land about Carthagena, seing we had mised of Santa Martha by falling to the westward, though I do not doubt but we were pretty near it, so as had it been tolerably clear we should have seen it ; but it was so very thick and hazie, as it had been all along since we came into the trade wind, that we could scarce see three or four leagues a-head of us. The wind con- tinued at E.N.E. since we left St. Thomas, and blew very fresh, especially in the night time, so that now, we halling closer at the wind, were forced to take in all our smal head saills, and rive our topesaills, which was a great delay to our voyage ; which brings me, by the by, to observe that the midle course is still the best, especially in the said trade wind countreys, where falling to the leeward is so tedious to recover, it being better to have 100 leagues to run down than 20 to turn up; but it is very easy shapeing a course in this trade wind, for any thing of an deliberate artist. A reasonable man may al- ways, sailling to the leeward, order his course so as he cannot miss of a fair wind ; and amongst variable winds, I judge a large course alwise the best, that is with a flower sheet by three or four points of the wind, rather than keep her close halled on it, if the wind be not altogether contrair, so as to put you too far out of your right course. In so doing, at 8 that evening, we stood S.W., and from 10 till 5 next morning, W.S.W., then S. be W. ; again it blew very hard all the preceding night, especially from 10 till 5, the time we steered W.S.W., that we were obliged to handle our topesaills and go under our two low courses ; the wind veered about to S.E., almost calme. We lay up S.S.W. ; at 10 it came 8.S.E.; we lay up S.W. Notwithstanding the calme, _ oy a ee Car 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 341 there went a prodigious high sea. We saw came floating by our side old trees, canos, and several sorts of fruits. We had likewise butterflyes of several sorts and colours about the ship, though we could not clearly make the land, (for we had fancied we saw it in four or five several places,) yet convinced us we were not far from it. We were by our dead reckoning in latitude 10 deg. 33 min., and to the westward of the meridian of Carthagena 33 min. We haved the sounding line frequently, but had no ground on 90 fathome. About 2 afternoon we lay S. be W., and at 4 the wind came into N.E. again, and we stood away 8. We had a pretty moderate breeze till 2 o'clock in the morning of Munday the 10th, when it fell calme again. About 5, we put out our boat to try the current, which we found to be about 13 or 14 miles in the 24 hours. We had then also soundings on 60 or 55 fathome ; a yellowish colloured clay. We reckon’d ourselves in the meridian of the Isle Tortuga, and not above 12 or 14 leagues north from it. It was very hazie, for if it had been clear, we believed we might have seen it, at least the land by it. At 12 we were by observation in the 9 deg. 44 min., and then begun to spring up a breeze at N., which I suppose from there to the N.E. may be the ordinary sea breeze on this coast, at least in this time of the year ; but I hope I shall have occasion to be more positive in this hereafter. About 4 afternoon we made land, bearing 8.E. be S., 6 or 7 leagues distance, by all our dead reckonings and observations, and bearing off the land, and it strengthening from the main, which we saw about 6 o'clock. We judged it to be Tortuga ; it is about 2 miles in length, but narrow flat towards both ends, riseing in several smal hillocks in the midle; it stretches along the main N.N.E. and 8.S.W. About 7 o'clock we sounded and found ground on 34 fathom water, lemon-coloured clay, with some smal shells amongst it. Tortuga then bearing E.S.E. of us, about five leagues distance. At 8 o'clock we stood away S.W. be S., to clear Cape Carribana, the eastermost Cape of the Gulph of Darien, all our droughts laying a shoal, 2 leagues of it runing all along from it. At 10 we sounded, and had the same water and colour of ground as before: at 12 we sounded again, and had 55 fathom water, a blewish slikieouse ; at again we had 60 fathome, the same sort of ground, and then we steered away south, and by daylight had the land bearing from the south to the E., between 2 and 3 leagues distance, and had the same sort of ground as before, on 12 to 9 fathom water. We stood then away 8.W., and 342 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. S.W. and be W., and W.S.W., with a hand-line in the main chains. We had all along 10, 10, 11, 12, fathome till 8 o’clock. We had Cape Carribane bear- — ing S. be W. of us, 3 or 4 leagues distance ; the wind came in to 8.8.W., S.W. be S., and 8.W., so that we were forced to ly away accordingly as close on the wind as we could. Cape Carribane, bearing 8., or S. be W., 2 or 3 leagues distant, appears thus—* cL adi with about 2 or 3 leagues to the N.E. of the point. When we had it bearing S.S.E., we had no ground on 30 fathome. We were then about 5 leagues distance. At 12 o'clock, by observation, we were in 8 deg. 35. This brings me to note that common oppinion of our not seing the N. Pole after we came within 10 equinoctial. I believe, indeed, we cannot well observe by it after that, for we had an observation the night before in 9 deg. 40 min., since which time, by all the reckoning aboard, we have not gone above 20 min. to the 8. ; and our day’s observation by the sun is more certaine than it, which I have said is 8 deg. 35 min., so that we have great reason to doubt the justness of the observing the Pole elevat any thing less than 10 deg. ; but, however, I am confident we will see him farther south, how far I perhaps may have occasion to nottice afterwards. Cape Carribane bearing 8. be E., 8.S.E.,8.E., half 8., from 4 leagues distance, so far as you can see it, appears like two islands from a point. It was quite calme till 2 o'clock, and then it began to blow about W., and we stood away S.8.W., but imediatly veering more to the southward, we tacked again, fearing to fall in in the Gulph, for there is a great draught that way. It fell imediatly calme, so that our ship would no way answer her rudder. We therefore halled up all our low courses, and down our tope saills ; it spreads up about half-an- hour afterwards, so as we steered away S.S.W. again. Cape Carribane, at 4 or 5 leagues distance, bearing S.E. and be S., appears as one Island with a Cape in the midle of it ; the S.W. part of it, the highest, when you come to have it bearing 8.E., or more easterly than you will see the land stretching N.W. and 8.E., 8 or 9 leagues distance, and it appears all on with the main. At 6 that evening we steered away S.W. At S.W.S.W., from 12 till about 3 * Here an outline is scratched with the pen, but it is so indistinct and vague, that, especially as the whole document is evidently a copy, it would serve no useful purpose to introduce a fac-simile of it. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 343 in the morning, we lay by, and when day made clear, we had Cape Carribane bearing E. About 8 or 9 leagues distance, we have Cape Tiburroun, bearing S.E. be E., about 6 or 7 leagues distance, and Cape Zeman, bearing S.W., or S.W. be W. Cape Carribane bears of Cape Tiburroun, the Cape to the west- ward of the Gulph of Darien, 8.W. or 8.W., being 5 or 6 leagues distance. The land from Cape Tiburroun to Golden Island streaches about N.W., and on the eastward of the Gulph from Cape Carribane eastward to Tortuga N.E. and 8.W. Iam more particular in the description of Cape Carribane, because thereabouts, or a little to the eastward, is a very proper landfall for ships bound for Caledonia, especially while we and the Spaniard have any differrence, because that we ought to keep clear of their coast so much as possible, without runing the hazard of falling to the leeward. Cape Carribane lyes almost a degree E. of Golden Island, and about a degree to the west- ward of the E. end of Jamaica, in the latitude of deg. 44 or 45 min. N. When we had Cape Tiburroun bearing 8.E. and be S., leagues distance of us, we came over a great ripleing, with a great deal of wrack and trash a-tope of it, the water differing imediatly on either side to the eastward, dark green, the colour we had all along the coast, but to the westward blewish ; and the ground which we had on 30 fathom water, about 3 leagues distant from the shore, a light blew clay. I suppose this Cape Tiburroun the W. Cape of the Gulph, and I believe that ripleing proceeded from a current that runs in there: it is about 10 leagues from Caledonia Harbour. We catched a tortoise a-tope of the rypleing amongst the wavs. We feared it had been foul ground ; but our boat, which we put out to try, had no ground at 20 fathome lyne. From 5 of the clock this morning, Wednesday the 12th, we steered away W. and be W. and be N., haveing the wind, though very easy, with rain from the land, and very thick and hazie: The preceeding night (though easy wind) rained excessively, thundered and lightened. About 8 of the clock morning, we had the Island navigat in our new drafts of Cale- donia, about mileg, or 50 to the westward of the Gulph, bearing S. of us, about 2 or 3 miles distance. It was calme from 8 till after 12 of the clock, and then sprung up the breeze at N.H, and be N., and we stood away N.W. for Golden Island. Cape Carribane and Golden Island lyes E. and W. of one another. Cape Tiburon and Golden Island N.W. and 8.E. I most Cape Carriban clearing of you appear the highest Island southest 344 THE DARIEN PAPERS 1700. of lowermost* and to the S.W., of it, in two or three different places. About 1 league or 2 distance from it appears only trees as they grow — imediatly out of the water : thus it appears from 4 or 5 leagues distance, bear- ing E. of you till 3 leagues distance. Cape Tiburroun, bearing 8. be E., 8.8.E., S.E. half 8., from 4 leagues distance to 8 or 9, appears thus—f me Cape Tiburroun bearing 8.E. and be S., 8 leagues distance. It appears at 3 leagues distance with this Litle Island, as marked below. About one o’clock it fell again calme, and we fell in with the eddie of the currents of the Gulph, and the ordinary one alongst the coast, that of the Gulph setting N.W., and the others S.E., as our boat found, which together drove us east at about 30 mile in the 24 hours. We came, therefore, to an anchor till we should get a brisk gale to work our ship by. What I have said here of Cape Tiburroun is a mistake, having taken another for it, lying four leagues distance S.E., within the Gulph; for Cape Tiburroun lyes just east of Cape Carribane. We got up our anchore about 6 o'clock at night, and were forced to drive to the eastward 4 or 5 leagues before we could get our ship out of the eddie of the different currents, and to get ourselves dis- engulphed. The wind was very variable all night, and we tacked accordingly in the morning. About 5 of the clock it came in to the S.S.W., and we stood away W.N.W. for Golden Island, having Cape Carribane bearing §.8.E. at 24 miles distance, and Cape Tiburroun bearing W. be §., 8 or 9 miles distance of us, and Cape Zeman W. and be N., at 7 or 8 leagues distance ; but the weather was so uncertaine, so thick and hazie, calme all the night, with thunder and lightening, and what wind blew in the daytime was still from the shore, that till the 15th we could not distinctly make Golden Island. About 4 o’clock we came in with the Isle of Pinnes, and sent our boat ashore, who cruised and rowed till 12 o’clock at night amongst the Islands betwixt it and Golden Island, but returned without any account of our Colony. When we sent our [ boat] ashore, Capt. Robertson was persuaded it was Golden Island, and really to all our bearing we had got of it, with itsyshape, confirmed him, However, when our men came aboard, and told us that these were all Islands, I then knew certainly where we were, and accordingly we stood away to * Here occurs another scratched outline. + Here there is in the MS _a blank space for a sketch, which has not been copied. 1700. ' THE DARIEN PAPERS. 345 the eastward again till 16th ; we made Golden Island of a truth, and all its marks were known plainly to mé. We then sent away our boat, and I write | two letters along with it—one to the Council of the Colony, showing them where we were and from whence, and desireing a pillot to conduct us in: I wrote another to Capt. Andrew Stewart, the Earle of Galloway’s brother. By the time we judged our men had got in, we heard two cannons from the Fort. We fired one, and they another, as we supposed, in return. We then no longer doubted but our countreymen were there, and so set out our boat to tow us in, for it had been calme some more than an hour before, otherwise I am persuaded we had gone in, and the Lord knows what might have been the event. We have great reason to doubt the worst ; there being no wind to work our ship, we had been obliged to have come to an anchore in the road, and all men knows what an ungenerous enemy the Spaniard is ; and really we have as litle reason to trust him (both considering how some of our people have been formerly treated by them, and what we ourselves afterwards met with,) as in any nation in the world. But before we could come near the Black Rock, or in sight of the Garrison, we saw our boat returning, yet dreaded nothing of the fatal news they brought us. On the contrair, we were bigg with the fancy of seeing our countreymen in general in quiet pos- session of the place, and in particular some of us were full of the expectation of seing our dear friends, commerades, and acquaintances ; in shorte, there was nothing but a general mirth and jolity amongst us; but alas! it was soone dampt when our boat came aboard, giving us the lamentable, sad, dismal account of the Spanish ensigns on our fort, with that nation in possession thereof; and that the guns we had imagined fired by our countreymen in token of gladeness at our arrival, were by the Spaniard shot at our boat, when she was making her escape from them, after having discovered who they were both by their ensigns and speech, having answered them in Spanish to what they demanded of them. When our men rowed close to their fort, not doubting but they were our friends till such time as they came to discover so many different sorts of liveries, as red, blew, gray, and yellow ; then beginning to doubt, considering their ensigns, they lay off upon their oars, and our chief mate, James Knight, asked in English to whom that place belonged ; and all that he could understand of their answer was, venica fruanna, which signifies come here, goodman ; then our men begun to put off, which they no sooner 2x 346 THE DARIEN PAPERS. ‘ 1700 see but they begun to fire, which were the shots before mentioned. This account all the men in the boat declares on oath, and have subserived an attestation thereof, whereof I have an exact and true double. They had no sooner given this account but Captain Robertson ordered his helme a-weather, and went away off to sea. I told him that we could not go so; for my part - I would not; and therfore imediatly required this boat, and four men to row me ashore. The difficulty was to find the men; Mr. Knight, our mate, Alexander Wedderburn, our gunner, James Panther, Andrew and John Young, consented to go; and if they had no other in the ship would, notwithstanding all the encouragement I gave them, (either by words in showing them how much their own honour and countrey’s interest were concerned to know how things were in that place,) or promises in ascertaining of areward. We left the ship, and towards the fort we rowed. As soon as I thought they could well decerne our colours, and hoist our Scots flag of truce at the stern of the boat, and the flag of truce at the head therof, when I have rowed a little nearer, within pistole-shot of their fort, I lay by on our oars, expecting when they should show us their flag in token of acceptance of our ; but for a long time there appeared no flag any where ; at last a smal sloop which lay a little within our point Battery, hoised her Spanish flag. We continued lying on our oars till the sloop begun to turn her broad- side to us, and then we likewise begun to row off a little farther, and so lay still a while longer ; but at last seing neither one flag nor another hoisted ashore, we rowed off without musquet-shote, as we judged, and so hoised down our flag of truce, and fired two musquet bullets and all at them, and so pulled aboard. I forgot that first when we came in sight we see the Spanish flag on the fort, but as soone as they perceived ours distinctly they pulled it down ; we supposed at first it was of design to hoise their flag of truce, and so rowed on, for I was determin’d to have rowed ashore if they had keeped any ensign either Spanish or altogether white flying on the fort ; but their pulling of the one down without hoiseing the other, gave me to suspect they had no design to parley with; which, if true, is more honour and ingenuity than eyer I expected of that nation. While we lay closest to the fort, I made it my business to observe the posture of things ashore as narrowly as possibly. I observed a great part of the rampart intire towards the look-out, and perfectly our postern gate. I observed several very good 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 347 houses, and a fort where Mr. Mackay’s house stood. I saw some guns on the Point Battery ; but how many I could not well distinguish. I observed the men in vast numbers, and their several liverys. Where their look-out can be I cannot tell ; but there is no watch-house where ours stood. All this, or most of it, is attested by the forenamed men that rowed me ashore. When we came aboard I required Captain Robertson to performe the conditions of _ his charter-party with the Court of Directors, and their instructions to him ; and thereupon took instruments in the hand of James Duncan, the ship’s carpenter. Captain Robertson answered, he was willing and ready to have delivered his cargo, if there had been any body to have received it ; and thereon took instruments in the same person’s hand. I have the principal of my own, and the exact and true double of his. I went afterwards ashore towards Carret Bay ; but the night coming on, could make no discovery to purpose, so was forced to come aboard no wiser than I went ashore. We concluded all the Indians were run to the mountains; and that therfore we could expect no intelligence that way ; or, though they had been at home, we had no way to have understood them; and that the Spaniard could not be long from this place with his ships; and therefore seing we had no probable way by staying here, either to serve our countrey any manner of way, or get intelligence what was become of our friends and ships under of the Rising Sun, we judged it properest to leave this place, which we did with a very sorrowful heart, (I believe one and all of us,) and go where we judged we could get most certaine advice, and with least hazard. Querisao was the first pitched on, if we could turn up to it before our water was spent, which behooved to be three weeks’ time, having no more; but if, after some time turning to the windward, we saw no probability of effectu- ating it, we were resolved for Portmorant, in Jamaica, though we rather have Querisao, both for surer intelligence, by reason of their frequent trade and correspondence with Carthagena and the rest of the Spanish coast, and its being a free port: if we could any where, we thought we might there dis- pose of our cargo. I had a strange apprehension of our Colony’s being taken by storme, and, therefore, deemed Querisao the fitter place to get nottice if any of our people was prisoners, or ships prise at Carthagena, or any where else, with the Spaniard. On the 17th of June, about twelve of the clock, forenoon, we took our departure, Cape Tiburroun bearing S.S.W. of us, 6 or 7 leagues distance, wind W.N.W., and we stood away N.E. be N. 348 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. Towards the evening the wind came in to N.E. be E. and E.N.E., variable, and we lay away accordingly close upon wind. The next morning, about five of the clock, we saw Tortuga, when the wind came in to the 8.W. and S.S.W. We then stood again N.E.; that night the wind was variable as the night before. The next morning, by the break of day, we saw a sail; and _ having resolved, as I have noted, to speake all, we made after her; but she being far to the weather of us, and it falling calme, we got out our boat, and manageing her with nine hands, sent after her. They pulled and rowed for some hours, but could make nothing of her, for she stood close up on the wind in under the land, so that they returned as Wise as they went, only those that saw the sloop before mentioned lying in Caledonia Harbour thought it was she. It was my opinion, before our boat was out, and that she was sent to Carthagena to informe their ships there of our being on the coast ; we therfore thought it our wisest course to get off that coast ; but could not clear the island lying off it, though we lay N.N.E., and our course from Caledonia had been N.E. without tacking. That evening the wind came in to E.S.E. and §8.E., and we stood away N.W. be N., N.N.W. and N., till the next morning ; then at six of the clock, the 20th, we had Cartha- gena bearing E. of us, 7 or 8 leagues distance ; the wind was then E.S.E., and we stood away N.N.E., being a course clear enough of all that coast, which I must confess we had keeped aboard too long, considering our cir- cumstances with the Spaniard, none of the best policy in the world ; but though I was convinced of it as much as any man, yet I was so anxious to hear of our friends, and learn something of their misfortune, that I could have run any risque or danger whatsomever to have got it either from Mr. Jack himself, or any other sloop or ship tradeing on his coast. Carthagena is a pretty great oppning, with a flat island, with a smal sounding towards the N.E. end of it. The main from it is a very high cape declining gradually towards the ; and westward the land is likewise indifferent high, but more continued, runing of a hight a pretty way W. or S8.W. and , toward the island. The preceeding night, we catched a shirk, which, in my oppinion, is but very indifferent meat, even the tail of a young one, which is reckon’d the best. Hight of the clock this morning, when it begun to clear up, we saw the high land of Santa Martha, as we supposed, but however it was a vast high land, the highest that ever I did see. It bore of us E. be N., and then Carthagena bore E. and be §. half southerly, so that I reckon Cartha- 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 349 gena lyes off it E.S.E. southerly, but at what distance I shall not determine ; I believe it may be 40 leagues or 50. If it be so high as it is generally believed to be, and if that which we saw was it, we were, by observation at twelve of the clock, in 10 deg. 41 min. ; then the wind came in to N.E., and we steered close upone N.N.W. till four of the clock we tacked, and so lay S.S.E. and E. be 8. till two the next morning ; and the 21st we tacked again, and lay N. half-westerly. At six of the clock, we came over just such another ripleing as in the Gulph of Darien, and the waters of the same differ- ent colours, with the same sort of trash a tope of it. I judge it may come from the ground, or the great river, as our carts call it, and where I have heard of fresh water taken up a great way at sea; but I hope I shall be better informed at Jamaica anent this. This river lyes betwixt Santa Martha and Carthagena some few min. to the eastward of the E. end of Jamaica. We had as much wind all night at N.E., N.N.E., and E.N.E., as we could stagger under our tope saills double rived. We were, by obser- vation at twelve of the clock, in the 11 deg. 30 min. We lay still north half northerly, the wind E.N.E., and so till the 22d, about eight of the clock, we lay N. and be E. At twelve of the clock, by observation, we were in 12 deg. 51 min., our course, as before, N. be E., the preceeding night, and this blew still so hard that our gunnel was still almost under water, though with double rives in our tope-saills. We were of oppinion, by our observation, that our ship did . not fall so much to the leeward as we expected, our observation being to the northward of our dead reckoning, though indeed we were convinced our log glass was too short. There went so very high a sea that with the straining of our ship upon the wind against it, she became so laky that we were obliged to stand by the pump every hour, whereas before, from our leaveing St. Thomas, only every two hours, till that from the storme we had when we were beat back to the Orkneys from the westward of St. Kildair, once in a watch ; and till then from our setting out only twice in the twenty-four hours ; and in the trade-wind, with very easy, fair weather, or when we were right before wind, only in the morning before the sun rose and at sun-setting, for moistning the decks, the violent heat of the sun*opening the pores of the timber, so that the water entering would have rote the decks; but now, though we pumped every hour, the water stunk so vitiously there was hardly any body could stay near it, especially betwixt decks. I judge by the black- o 350 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. ness of the water it proceeds from some coals that we have in the floor of the ship, or from the lead and iron that we have there ; but of this I shall enquire afterwards, God willing, from them that makes it their trade to transport those sort of ware. The 23d continued to blow as before, and our course much the same ; by observation at twelve of the clock, we were in 14 deg. 26 min. The 24th was the same, our course two watches E. 2 N. 2 N.N.E., the wind still proportionable, for we stood alwise close on it; at noon we were by observation, in 16 deg. 5 min., our course N. be E., N.N.E., N.E. and be N.N.E., full close on the wind till the 25th ; at twelve a’clock we were, by \ observation, in 17 deg. 19 min., the wind betwixt E.S.E. and S.E. and be E.; we stood away N.E. and be N., 2 points from the wind, by all reckonings aboard, or rather probable conjectures, being to the eastward of Jamaica ; and about an hour after, N.N.E., 3 points from the wind, takeing it pretty large, if possible to make the island before night ; and accordingly about three afternoon we made the east end of the Island of Jamaica. It being thick and hazie, and not acquaint with the shore, or whereaboutes Portmorant was, we tacked about five a’clock, and so stood off shore till eleven or twelve, when we stood in again to make the land toward day-light next morning, the 26th, which we did accordingly, though 4 or 5 leagues to the windward of where we took our departure the night before. We stood away large allongst the shore till we made Portmorant harbour; and then sent our boat with our gunner ashore to Dr. Stewart, to whom I wrote a letter. He lives about . a mile to the westward of the harbour, so that it was two or three afternoon before our boat returned, who brought me a letter from Dr. Stewart, which I shall not here mention, having the principall by me. Capt. Robison is dead. Dr. Stewart wrote another to Dr. Blair in Port Royall, to whom he recom- mended me for intelligence anent our people, who Dr. Stewart believes to be at Blewfieldes. He told us that we might have whatever we wanted there, and did not understand how they came to refuse us any thing to the wind- ward. He told likewayes of Mr. M‘Kaye’s being drowned accidentally in halling of a shirk ; and that our people in Caledonia wanted for no manner of provisions, but that dissention among themselves had been the great cause of their leaving that place; and therefore concluded, as does every body else, that a Governor is absolutely necessary for the Colony if ever we expect to thrive. He told us likewayes, that the Spaniards were obliged by 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 351 the capitulation to give all Scotts’ shipes wood and water, and whatever else the place afforded, for three months after their surrender; and that if our people had continued the place for a week longer, the Spainiard had deserted the place by reason of a great sicknesse encreasing amongst his men. He told, by their last accompts from England, he heard that the Dutch had con- tributed some vast summe of money to the Companye’s stock; and that Jamisone’s couper had declared at Port Royall that he was bribed by him to blow up his ship ; and of this, he said, that both he and Dr. Blair had given the Directors at home an accompt of ; and that Jamison had gone home from Port Royall mate aboard of ane English ship ; that some of Pinkerton’s men had been at his house, who gave him an accompt that all were released but Pinkertoun himself, who was sent to Old Spain, and Mr. Arskin, Glenneagles’ ladie’s brother, who had turned Romanist, and would in no way part with them, living very well amongst them. He told likewayes of Captain Campbell’s being wounded ; and of the treacherous courdice of some Lev- tenant who deserted his post, while his men stood still and fought, other- wayes the Spaniard had not got that passe isthmos, Capt. Gibson coming with 200 men to reinforce him, but met him coming off, leaving the Spaniards masters of the passe. Dr. Stewart would very fain have had me come ashoar, but I would not tarry, longing to hear certain newes of our countreymen ; and so I immediatly, as we had got the boat aboard, made all the saile we could for Port Royall, where we came about six of the clock ; but, not being acquainted, were afraid to venture in with so little day, and so lay off and on. The next morning Dr. Stewart told likewayes he had advice from Scot- land of the three frigots being granted to the Company; that their two proper ships, the Lion and Thistle, were come home from Hamburgh ; and that the King was on his way for Scotland so far as York. 27th, was gott into Port Royall. Immediatly went ashore to Dr. John Blair, a brother of Inshiron’s, in the shire of Angus, a part in Scotland. He was then a-bed very ill, so as I could not see him till evening. I went that afternoon to Kingston, about six or seven leagues from Port Royall by water, where the Governour then was, to pay the ordinary ceremony at our first arrivale to him. He allowed me to buy what I wanted, so far as my ready money would go, but no way to dispose of any of the cargo for that effect upon ; otherwayes he was very civill, and seemed to regrate our misfortunes. I returned that night 352 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. to Port Royall; and I immediatly came to Dr. Blair, who rose, being a-bed, and came down to me. I spoke little or nothing of business to him that night. The next morning I met him again, and learned from him so much as I believe he knew of our people’s transaction in Caledonia. I went the 29th to Spanish Town to wait on the Governour a second time, when I delivered - _ him a letter from Mr. Jenkins, the navall officer at Port Royall, shewing him the circumstances of the St. Andrew, and my inclinations to dispose of my cargo for her reliefe, or fitting her home ; and only desired liberty to consign it in Dr. Blaire’s hand, to be imployed for that use allenarlie, in respect I knew my cargo would not go the length to doe it of it self, but expecting some other ships from Scotland before they could have notice of this second disaster of their Collonie, I concluded, that joyntly they might doe the businesse. I used all the arguments I thought likely with the Governour, but to no purpose. He told me he believed he might be chequed for that he had allowed the people then at Blewfieldes to dispose of things to the value of 200 or 300 pound, though he was perswaded it was but maner of humanity, they being dying meerly for want of strong liquors and fresh provisions. I asked him, if that he had all things readie to carrie the ships home, if he would allow her to goe? He told me peremtorly not, if that we either were in Caledonia, or that there were any certaine word of our going there, without a particular order from the King ; and that he had told Mr. M‘Kay so. I took my leave of him; and in my way to Port Royall, visited our countreyman Captain Wm. Hutchison, who came over with Jamison. He is married to a great fortune, about 2 or 3000 lib. per annum, thirteen weeks ago, and now is dangerously sick. I discoursed with him till three or four o’clock at night that the land breeze came in ; and then came to Port Royall to bed. I had resolved, after understanding our people’s way of manage- ment, not to come to an anchor at Blewfieldes, and therefore to wood and water at Port Royall; the Sunday we could not. On Munday and Tewsday the 2d of Jule, we came out the length of the keyes, the land breeze not serving to carrie us quite out. The 3d, we got ther, steering for the Blewfields, resolving not to come to an anchor, but to send to Captains Drummond or Vetch to come aboard, to learn from them how things goe, and what they resolved to doe. The Ist of July we loosed two men, viz., Robert Perison, and John Espeling, both drowned in doing of their businesse about the se 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 353 St. Andrew. I dined at Mr. Jenkine’s the 29th of June. I sold the smithe’s tooles for twelve pound ; I gave three pound to Capt. for guiding of us out. I presented 4 barrels of oat meale to Capt. Murray, Mr. Jenkins, Capt. Hutcheson, and Mr. Blair, to each one. I had a letter from Dr. Blair to the Court of Directors; one from Mr. Boreland to Mr. Wylie, Minister of Hamilton ; one from Mr. Mexan, the directing Minister at Port Royall, to Dr. Rule. I wrote two letters myself the 2d of Julie, one to Capt. Wm. Hutcheson in Jamaica, the other to Coll. Lewis , at New York. Capt. Dalling’s flying boat running a-ground at Carthagena, and was sold afterwards to the Spaniards. The small sloupe Capt. Drummond brought from New York was lost near the Caimanas. That sloup which was bought of the New England man, with Mr. Stewarte’s, are both sold ; and have been making proposals about selling the St. Andrew to the Spaniards for 20,000 pieces of eight. The 5th of Julie I came to Blewfields, and sent ashore the boate with a letter to Capt. Thomas Drummond, who immediatly came aboard, and by whose advice I came to an anchor. We went ashore together, where I mett Capt. Veitch. I endeavoured to learn the circumstances from him as much as possible, though really it was but little I could gather from him, being alto- gether influenced by other people, and that with so much resolution that I found him varie in minutes. I shall not here set down what I learned of others, having got Capt. Thomas Drummond’s Journall, Mr Shiel’s, and Capt. Thomas Ker’s. I only understood their base, dishonourable capitulation proceeded from cowardish, ill managment, temerity, and dissention. We ~ perswaded Mr. Veitch to allow that New England , mentioned before to be sold though false, now to be fitted out for Capt. Thomas Drummond to go to the windward in, for preventing the morrowing of ships that may fall downe to Caledonia, not knowing of the surrender of the place. I gave him half a tunne brandie, three barrels oat meale, some cordage, and a box of candles for his voyage, and took his receipt thereof. I gave also, for the use of the Company’s proper shipes for their carrying home two tunne of brandie, and six barrels of oat meale for the sick men, and took Capt. Veitche’s receipt thereof on these termes, though Capt. Gibson told me he had five months’ provision aboard. I told him I was sorry to think they should’ have left Caledonia for want then, since they had eight moneths’ provision aboard, three since that time ; who said they had got it all since. True, sayes I, 2¥ -”~ 354 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700- since the capitulation, but before you left the place; neither need you say Capt. Drummond came too late with the provisions; since he lett yow clearly see what just pretence you had to break with the Spaniards,—first, because they, by capitulation, are only to mount up thirty men on the bastion yow delivered, wheras they mounted most or all the white men they _ had; 2dly, their imposition against the French prisoners not contained in any of the articles ; yea, last of all, had the Officers done as they ought, they would have denyed their authority in the matter. So that, had you inclined - to have kept the place, there was no want of reason on your side, and you can pretend little excuse that way for leaving of it. Capt. Veitch, on the 8th day, demanded the cargo of me, in respect he would carry it home in the Rising Sun, and so save the Company the fraught homewards. I told him he should have it with all my heart, only give me a sufficient bill of loading such as I had of Capt. Robertson ; but they would give no such ; only Capt. Veitch would grant receipt of it for the Company’s use. I beged their pardon. I told them I thought the security we had was better. I then desired they would consider of what advantage intelligence would be to the Company ; and therefore, if they would fit out one of the Com- pany’s preper shipes imediately, I would put the cargo aboard of her, take my hazard, and go home in her myself, but that they would engage to do only. Captain Gibson said, “ Wee, man, I’le set sail mysell shortly.” Says I, “I am sure a short while’s intelligence is worth a hundred pound to the Company, and I will run the risque of it, rather than they should want it any longer.” It. is to be noted, there was nothing formal in all this matter, only a bare requisition by Captain Vetch ; and four or five days after I had come in, without either one sort of instrument or other, or demanding a sight of the Charter-party, Captain Vetch told openly that it came not of him, for Captain Gibson had put it in his head since he came aboard of our ship. | I said I liked it nothing the better of such an author. They imediatly went ashore, the which, about nine o’clock at night, we came to sail, it was easy wind all night ; but the 10th, about ten o'clock that morning, the breeze began to freshen. In about five of the clock that night, we had Point Negril. the westermost pairt of Jamaica, bearing E. be N. of us, 9 leagues distance. We stood away W.N.W. for the grand Caimana, designing to keep it a star- board, though, for my own pairt, 1 thought it was too much westerly ; but 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 355 it was our skipper’s oppinion, and therefore I succumbed, not depending on my own skill. The 11th, by observation, we were in-19 deg. 11 min. ; and when we altered our course to N.W. be W., expecting to make the Caimana that night, but we did not; and therefore, about six, we stood away N.W. The 12th, we could have no observation, the sun being just, or very near our length. About two of the clock afternoon we stood away N.W. be N., till the 13th, about eight of the clock morning, we stood away N.N.W. We had the wind now at N.N.E., and the two preceding days betwixt the E. and N.E. At twelve, we were, by observation, in 21 deg. 27 min., which, though we could not depend, yet agreed very well with our dead reckoning, which was in 21 deg. 24 min.: we steered away N. be W. This frequent altera- tion of course proceeded from the great difference of our draughts ; and being now so far to the northward, without any appearance of land, we were afraid for falling to the leeward, though, for my own part, I thought it too northerly, as I have noted our course, at our first setting out for Jamaica, too westerly. About five of the clock at night we made land, but could not determine particularly about it; all we could make of it was a great many broken islands ; but it was litle wind, so that we could not make them clearly while day-light, so we stood away N.W.: the wind was about S. be E. I judged it behooves to be the many smal rocks laid down in our drafts to the windward of the Isle of Pinnes, about 15 or 16 leagues to the eastward of Cape St. Antonia, on the Island Cuba. They are navigate from about 5 or 6 leagues off the body of the Island Cuba, close in upon it. About 8 of the clock, after a further consultation with our carts, and an observation by the nocturnal, we steered away W. be N., which truly I think the properest course, seing it is impossible that we must have risk enough westward before we can reach Cape St. Antonia ; I mean only till to-morrow, though ; and all Cuba lies much or near of a latitude from Cape Cus westward ; so that I allow that I appoint of nothing for the distance we are off shore. The next morning, by day, we had a clear view of the land. We now suppose it to be that laid down in our old Dutch drafts, running all along from the Island Pinnes without to the eastward: to the eastward is 20 leagues, joining the body of Cuba at Point Padre, on a paralell almost with the grand Caimana, at least not above 10 or 12 miles differing to the westward of it. It streaches away from the Isle of Pinnes, betwixt E. be N. and E.N.E., but 356 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. E.N.E. nearest. I suppose it is what ordinarily goes by the name of the South Keys of Cuba, where is said to be plenty of victual. We now stood away W. right along the shore ; but about 9 of the clock, comeing nearer, we observed all that we had taken for Keyes to be one land, so we then concluded it was the Isle of Pinnes, and that by the streach of the land we had fallen in in a smal stay near the west end of it; so that now we were obliged to stand away W.S.W., to clear the island ; but about an hour after- ward we found that was a mistake, and that those behooved certainly to be the Keys, for now we discovered a great many very plainly, though we could not tell where we were, far less where we had fallen in with the land. Our carts were not indeed very good, but really, to tell the plain truth, we were as much wanting in skill how to use them. It shall alwise be my prayer to be delivered from a self-conceited ignorant skipper as much as any one thing I know. I had given several cautions to him about his courses, though to no purpose, his own freck going beyond all reason with him, though he would have contradicted himself in some few minutes’ time, but with fresh im- pudence, as if he had never been wrong ; but in short, we know not now well where we are: we believe we are somewhere on the coast of Cuba, and we steer away W.S.W., to clear the Keys, which we have. I told him what his strange, vastly different, uncertaine courses would come to. He said he did it for the best, and still thought he was right, for it was always good for one to be sure. I said to him that he was indeed true, but the method he took looked not like an artist, for there was no difficulty in making of any land with a litle pains and time, but it was the artist that could make it best and soonest—things not being to be gaged by the event, but by the rational conjectures of the projector; and it was not enough if he, or any bumler else, should come to their end, yea, perhaps better than a good artist, since it was not by the reasonableness of the measures he or they took, but rather their good chance that they did so. He told me, at least he mean’d to me, speaking to one of his mates, that he believed much of the miscarriage of the Rising Sun proceeded from the too many skippers which was aboard of her, which was so plain a chalenge to me, that I could not let it slip, though I only asked how he came to know, never having been aboard of her, nor yet had occasion to have discoursed any concerned on that head; and withall told him, that a great many skippers could have done no more ill 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 357 _ than an ill-conceited, ignorant, self-willed one. About 12 o’clock we steered away W. again, when, by observation, we were in 21 deg. 8 min. About half an hour afterwards we began to see some high lumps, which, about two of the clock, we discerned plainly to be the Isle of Pinnes: it is a very even low land, only ten or eleven high rounds in the midle of it, within three or four leagues to another. We steered away again W.S.W. and 8.W. be W., to clear it, that being the streach of the island. We were then persuaded we had steered too northerly courses, though I must say our skipper, who ne’re would willingly acknowledge himself to have been wrong, would affirme it was a current that had done it. Contrair to all the experience hitherto found, yet such was his impudence, rather than to acknowledge the truth of his ignorance. It fell calme towards the evening, as it had done ever since we left Jamaica: it continued easy wind all night. The next, the 15th, by six in the morning, we had the Isle of Pinnes bearing N.E. of us, about six leagues distance : we stood then away W.N.W. About nine of the clock we saw two sloops to the westward of us: we believed them to be bay-men bound for Jamaica, yet we did not think fit to trust them too much ; there- fore got all in readiness to fight on occasion. At twelve we were, by obser- vation, in 21 deg. 28 min., 12 min. to the south of yesterday's: the wind came then in to N.W. and N.W. be N. We stood away accordingly close upon it: it was but easy, and continued so till about six of the clock, when it sprung in very fresh. We handed our topegallant, missene, and spret topesaills, fearing some extraordinary weather, both by reason of the unac- customary wind, and of a gandago, as the seamen called it, which we saw about an hour before that. “Tis just like your sun under a cloud, and some- times, they say, shines so bright, that they cannot decerne it from the true sun. About eight of the clock, Captain Robertson, being a little indisposed, went to bed : his second mate had therefore the watch, who, on what account, himself nor no body else could tell, tack’d the ship, though we lay no better than E. be N., and keeped her so till his watch was out: then I came on the deck, and then we tacked her the other way, when she lay N.W. be W. and N.W., a course high enough in my oppinion, being twelve or fifteen leagues of a certain to the eastward of Cape St. Antonia. The wind was then at N. and N. be W. About five in the morning we saw land of our board side, which we judged to be Cape Corientes ; and about six we saw high land of 358 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. our cate-head, which we judged to be Cape St. Antonia, with a low land ~ streaching from it to the westward ahead of us right. We were up with it about two o’clock afternoon, when Captain Robertson and I adjusted our accounts. He begun to exclaime about the badeness of his voyage, as he alwise, used to do, saying, he had nothing ado here, that had a wife and bairns to look after at home. I told him there were greater losers than he ; for my part, I did not see what reason he had so much to be dissatisfied with it, since I believe his owners would pay him his wages, and that was all he — could reasonably have expected by the voyage. He then begun to ery out what he had spent about the Company’s business, so that I was obliged, for stopeing of his mouth, to allow him forty shillings for expenses, which he said he had spent, though I am confident he had not spent much over the fourth part of it; but I did it on this condition, that the Directors would allow it me, he being to charge the Directors with the forty shillings of pillotage that I laid out for carrying us out from Port Royal. The ballance betwixt us was £8 Jamaica money, which he paid me in pieces of eight, 1 am sure not better than Scots forty shilling pieces ; and when I chalenged them, he told me it was better the Company losed them-than he. I refused them several times, but at last behooved to take them, or want, withall assureing him, if that the Court of Directors were not pleased with them, he should have them back again. He is a base mercenary soul, not the least spark of generosity or honour, and cares for nothing but what imediatly tends to his own advantage, and I have reason to believe will scruple at nothing that may tend that way. About three o’clock we saw more land, so that we did not know what to make of it. Some think what we are now abreast of is Cape Corientes ; others think it another Cape, lying to the eastward, betwixt it and the Isle of Pinnes; and some judged it to be the Isle of Pinnes: in short, we know not what to make of it; but the wind being now at S.W., we cannot clear it, and therefore we have taked, and stands now away 8.E. be 8. I begin to repent now that I did not wait a day longer for company, an English ship being to sail the next day from Blewfields after we left it, which would have come all along to England with us, if we had pleased ; but my anxiety to be home would not allow me to stope an hour on any body, though now I am convinced it had been better for me, and more in my way, to have stoped a week, than to have ventured out under the conduct 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. ; 359 of such damnable, stiff-necked, oppiniative ignorants as we have got aboard. I rely intirely on Providence, hoping that God would be so kind as to bring us well and quickly through our badge ; and I vow all my days to acknow- ledge it as one of the most singular mercy’s of my life,.and I am sure I have not been tristed with a few. The wind shifted again, so that we lay N.W., and two or three hours after we came up with Cape Coriantes, and saw the Cape St. Antonia bearing N.N.W. of us. The 17th, about four o’clock morn- ing, we had Cape St. Antonio bearing N. be E., but from that time met with such a current as drove us 40 min. in the twenty-four hours: we had still a pretty fresh brize, so as we went by the log two knots and a half, but yet fell so to the S.E., which is the way current setts, that in twenty-four hours’ time we were out of sight of the Cape. We continued driving at this rate till the 19th, when we got a pretty fresh breeze, which brought us, by six in the evening, to have the Cape St. Antonio bearing again N. to E. The 20th, about day-light, we had the Cape bearing E.S.E. of us, five or six leagues distance. It was easy wind at E. and E. be N. This Cape lies in the latitude of 22 deg. 10 or 12 min. N. latitude, and is the westermost point of Cuba : it will lye from Point Negril, in Jamaica, about N.W., or betwixt and N.W. by W., which is the proper course betwixt the two, in my humble oppinnion, for I judge it best to fall in to the west of Cape St. Antonio, the current from it eastward, near that shore, setting S.E.: but I believe to have that Cape bearing E. of us, we got the current setting away N.E. This is my conjecture only ; for I would have no body to depend on any certainty of the currents all along within the Leeward Island, down the Bay of Mexico, neither of the winds on the coast, for I have found, nor can say nothing is certaine of them but their uncertainty, which cannot be discovered by a long tack of experience, so that I would advise people designing hither to take all the help of good ways and carts they can, though I believe a man’s own experience will be found to be the safest, yea, must be that which he must depend upon, so that every body must take as they. find them, and make the best of them they can. . It fell calme about eight of the clock, so that about seven in the evening we had the Cape bearing N. be E., we still driving as much in the day time, which was calme, as we got up in the night. The breeze then, as ordinarly, began to freshen, and by day, 21st, we hade the Cape bearing N.N.E. of us, five or six leagues distance. 369 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. We see a sail astern steering after us: what she is we cannot tell, but we make all ready to receive her, suspecting she may be a rogue. This calme in the day time, and any breeze we have being all night, brings me to remark the uncertainty of that common notion of land and sea breezes all over the W. Indies, since my experience tells me the contrair. I shall only instance, since I left Blewfields, it has been calme for the most part, not so much as a breath all the day long, and the night we have for the most had a smal breeze, but as oft, yea oftener, from the sea than shore. I speak now since we came on the coast of Cuba. The best conjecture I can make of the currents is from the Leeward Islands down to Carthagena. West from that all along the coast to keep according to the rainy or dry season : it lets out of the Bay of Mexico‘ from Cape Catorch E. and be N., till within some few leagues of Antonia, in Cuba, and thence till the Cape La Triniddada, on the same island, about E.S.E. from Cape St. Antonio, some few leagues to N.E.: it sets right along the coast of Cuba, till you come near the Havanay, and to the Bay of Meyetonsis, you have setting in to the Gulph of Florida : it sets in to the Bay of Meyetonsis. This 21st day we are by observation in 22 deg. and 6 minutes. You must have a care of the Bay of Pillock, there being a great nidryst there at some seasons of the year, and the land betwixt it and the Gulph of Florida very narrow, so that, setting of her from the Havanay, be sure to keep a pretty good easterly course, with the consideration to the indraught of the said Bay. I take the opportunity to write this now, because I am speaking of currents and wind, though I confess it would come better in when it shall please God to direct our own course that way: but I write things just as they come in head or hand, without respect of strick form or method, only designeing this for my own use allenerally, as a memorandum. About one of the clock, 21st, afternoon, we came over the taill of the shoall, navigat in the _ Dutch drauftes, or in the English mercator drauftes : we had then Cape St. Antonia bearing 8.E. be 8.; and first when I see ground, we were on five fathom water ; it runs unevenly, from one to four on the bank, and from ten, on the very next have of the lead, we had no ground on twenty fathom line ; but about five o’clock we came again on shoall water, haying only four or - five fathom water : we then lay N.E., but the current setting in the shoar, we thought it too low, the wind being at N.N.W. -I said it was best to let 1700. : THE DARIEN PAPERS. 361 goe an anchor. Our skyper would go about, which accordingly he did, though on less as a quarter of an houre’s time came to an anchor, though he would not do it on my advice before, telling me I had no concern at all in the matter, and that it lay no way in my road; he was so cross-natured, but withal so oppiniative, that he would not wait on company, saying he beleived he was as good as any of them, though, by all that’s good, he neither knowes well where he was, nor what course to steere : but I have severall proofs of his impudence and ignorance before, and of his haughty carriages to me, which I shall not forget, but shall mind in due time: the company, I mean at that ship I mentioned in the morning, not above a league or two astern, so that I am hopefull she will now get up to us, whether our skipper willes or not. We rid by a hazer only ; it is very soft tewgh ground, and I am afraid foull. We got up our anchor again about eleven of the clock, wind S.S.E.: we steered away north for about half an hour, when we came in again to deep water, then N.E., till four in the morning, 22d, and then N.H. by E., wind as before. About eight of the clock we came over another shoall, very unequal ground, sometimes having only five fathom water, and at the very next heave of the lead thirteen, and presently after we ground on fifty. Their shoals are so very surprising to strangers, that though ther may be no hazard on them otherwayes, I suppose they would be navigate accord- ingly ; yet I think they should in their set down the fathoms of water distinctly, so that folkes may know what they have to expect, and there were no matter of difficulty or great trouble either to those that sets them out; and it would prevent a great deale of fear and confusion that happens to people that are not acquainted when they fall in with them, especially in the night-time. My advice would be, to keep a good off shore, all the way from St. Antonia till the eastermost of the island on Cuba, which will be about fifteen or twenty leagues, so that, after making the land or Cape once, to stand of to sea, and not to come near the shore, or in sight of it, till so farre as I have noted to the eastward. We then stood away N.N.E.; wind came in to SS.W. This day we had sick our first mate, our gunner, and two sailors, all of an extreme headach and soreness through all their bones, as if they had been bruised in a mortar. We were by observation in 22 deg. 45 min., so that I believe yesterdayes was not good, seing we have of a surety gone more than nine miles to the northward 22 362 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. having all last night and this day had a pretty fresh gale. It fell calm about seven of the clock, and was so till twelve, from thence till four. The 23d, it was easy wind, and then it began to freshen, and we steered away N.E., wind E.S.E., till twelve: we were by observation in 23 deg. 14 min, : it fell then easi wind at W.S.W., and we steered away E.N.E. The 24th we were by observation in 23 deg. 36 min. This evening, at four of the clock, and the preceding, much about the same time, we had such a squall as made us hand all our sailes and yards but our foresaile, which was lowered near half- mast down, but without any rain. The 26th, evening, we took our departure from really we know not well where ; our skipper said it was about the Havana : we stood away close on the wind alwayes, sometimes lying N.E. be E. northeast, N.E. be N. The 27th, about twelve of the clock night, we came on four and five fathom water, but knew not whether to weather or leeward of the Gulph : we then came to an anchor till day, when, by the streatch of the land, we believed we were on the coast of Florida, almost to the E. part of the Cape. We tacked and twined all day to no purpose ; and now, at nine of the clock, we stand away 8.8.W., where, I do not know, for I am sure the other way we could ly about the Cape well enough, if it be as we suppose. About two of the clock morning, 28th, we made a saill, or rather she made us. Having put out a light to us, we keeped company till we got in to the Gulph, which was the 30th, when I was taken very ill, so as I could not keep the deck. I had been very much indisposed ever since the calmes we had on the coast of Cuba. It proved to be a spotted feaver, which came out that of August the 3d. I could get nothing that I could drink ; and as I lay fretting much for drought, wishing above all things in the world for some beer, Mr. Robertson a cask, which we had keeped all the while for vinegar, to be broached, but was, to all our surprise, found to be beer. For my part, I was very much concerned about the seeming change, looking on it as the singular mercy of God to me, being so very anxious to have beer, and that falling out to be contrair all of our expectations, could not but strike in me some more than ordinary sense of God’s providence to me in that matter at such a juncture. The 9th, I went above again, and saw that day five or six Tropique birds together : we were then in the latitude of 31 deg. 25 min. It was calm easie weather till the 7th, when it begun to freshen at E.S.E. We stood away N.E., and were by observation in 32 deg. 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 363 36 min.; and this afternoon I saw two Tropique birds. The 8th, was easie wind at S.E., and we stood away H.N.E.: by observation at twelve of the clock we were in 33 deg. 16 min. The 9th, blew pretty fresh at S.W. be W., and we stood as before. I saw this day more Tropique birds and flying fish : we were by observation in 34 deg. 6 min. ; and about two of the clock after- noon I saw a saile standing to the northward, but did not speak her. I am so particular about the flying fish and Tropique birds, to see how farr I can observe them to the northward, having ordinarily heard it observed that the Tropique birds did not fly far without the Tropiques, though I am ‘sure the one I saw the day is above 10 deg. the northwards thereof. The 10th, a pretty fresh gale as before, and our course the same. At twelve of the clock we were, by observation, in 35 deg. 11 min. The 11th was thick, dirty, hazey weather, wind and course as formerly: we had no observation we could depend on, but, by estimation, we were in about 36 deg. 4 min. I saw this day more flying fishes : it came to blow so fresh, it brought us under a fore- saile. About two o’clock afternoon, the wind came in to the N.N.E., whence to the N.E. and to the N.E. be E. ; we stood away close on it E., E.S.E., and S.E. be E.: it continued at N. and be HE. The 12th, I saw this day another Tropique bird. At twelve of the clock we were, by observation, in 36 deg. 23 min. ; so then lay but 8.E., so that we tacked and lay N. The 13th, about six in the morning, the wind began to varie towards the 8.: I then saw more Tropique birds, and I am certain we were in the latitude of 37 at least. About three of the clock the wind came in to 8.H., and we stood away E.N.E. Again, at twelve of the clock, we had a very good observation, the horizon being extremely clear, and were in 36 deg. 56 min. more southerly than we expected or our course gave us, so that we now concluded our yesterdaye’s observation has not been good, but too farre northerly. The skies was indeed very thick and foggie, so that it was not too much to be depended on, as we thought at the taking of it. About four of the clock afternoon the wind came into south, and I then saw more flying fishes, and a great deal of dolphines. We had likewayes a great deal of sea-weeds on the surface of the water, the which we have had all along, since we came through the Gulph of Florida, out of which they say they come, though I am sure we are now 600 leagues from it; a good way for them to drive, though I confess they had a good time to have done it since the creation of the world, at least the 304 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. flood, the current setting still out from the Gulph. About two of the clock morning, 14th, the wind came in to 8.S.W., a prettie fresh gale. About seven of the clock I saw great shoales, or rather flockes of flying fish, and a great many large dolphines. The sea-weeds continued also with us. About four of the clock evening the wind came in to 8.W. be W. and W.S.W. The 15th, about six in the morning, I saw another Tropique bird : I was this day taken so ill with my headach, that I was forced to raze the crown of my head, and aplye pleaster to it ; I had been ever troubled with it since before my sickhess, though not so extremely violent as now. We were by obser- vation, at twelve of the clock, in 38 deg. 56 min.’ About six of the clock evening, wind came in to N.N.E. and N.E. be N. The 16th, about ten of the clock morning, I saw more Tropique birds and flying fishes: we were by observation, at twelve of the clock, in 39 deg. 12 min. We lay then E., close upon the wind. The sea-wrack continued still with us: my headach continued likewayes, though much abated of its violence. The 17th, about twelve of the clock, the wind came in to 8.8.W., a very fresh gale. About four that morning we saw a tortoise sleeping on the water, which put us to some doubts whence it might come, not being ordinary on the coast of New England, and never any where so far at sea. We began to think our way might have been more easterly than we expected, and so nearer the Western Islands ; and accordingly we halled away N.E. and be E. About six of the clock we saw a flock of small gray birds, but these both Captain Robertson and I concluded came from the banks of Newfoundland, from whom we did not reckon our selves above forty or fifty leagues. The sea-weeds continued with us; but, blessed be God, my headach much abated. The 19th, about seven of the morning, we saw another flock of the same sort of fouls we see the preceding night. We were this day, by observa- tion, in 40 deg. 40 min., and by our course and difference of latitude, computed to be about 9 or 10 deg. of westerly variation. We had no surer way to calculate it, by haveing no compass, or any other help whatsomever. We had taken more than ordinar care of our last twenty-four hour’s course on purpose to find the variation, and which I believe may be near the truth ; indeed, we had for several days past found our northing more than our course allowed by our log, which we knew was pretty exact. We had judged only 5 or 6 deg. of variation, and I PoKe-e “Tete” =e 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 365 believe that may really be the hight, till past the latitude of 38, or thereby. We steered there away E.N.H. again, wind as before. The 19th, at twelve, we were by observation in 42 deg. 10 min. This day the sun’s declineation is the latitude of New Edinburgh, in Caledonia, at least of Golden Island, 8 deg. 59 min. ; so I reckon it is now pretty warme there, the sun being in your zenith. The wind begun then to vary to the eastward, to E. be S., and S.8.E. : we steered as before. The 20th, we were by observation in 43 deg. 17 min : the wind came then into S.8.W., and we continued our course till two of the clock that afternoon. We steered away E. and be N.; upon which Captain Robertson and I begun to speak about our way home N. about or through the K. Channel. I took that opportunity to tell him (though before I had not resolved to have spoke to him on that head till once we had been in the latitude of 49, and near Irland, or the soundings of the channels), that he behooved to go through St. George’s Channel for Clyde. He was very averse from it at first, so as he told me he would rather quite the charge of the ship than adventure it, being altogether a stranger to that Channel, and it of it self being more dangerous, by reason of different tides, currents, and foul ground, withall insinuating how much prejudice it would be to his owners : on which I took him up, leting him see it would rather be to their advantage, seing there was no place he could expect a freight in so soon as at Glasgow. This wrought with him, so as he condescended to go, only he behooved to touch in Irland for a pillot: that I thought almost as ill and tedeous as going about England or Scotland, seeing we were both unacquaint there, and were not sure, though we should put in, to get a sufficient one ; but at last, after consultation with our maps and wagoniers, I perswaded him to agree, God willing, to Loch Rean, where we will be sure of a pillot, and likewise, though the wind should prove cross, then it would be no great hazard, seing I could have the opportunity either of going my self to Edinburgh by land, if my strength would allow me, but otherwise, of sending an express with intelligence to the Directors of the Company, which I still told him I was conscious was the great reason why I had not put aboard of the Rising Sun the cargo, seing, as I still told them, I respected the giving speedy advice to the Company of more value to them than all the cargo we had aboard ; and yet I thought he, both in honour and honesty, was obliged to further it as much as in him lay, yea, though it should be with some lose 366 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. to his owners, seing it was not very reasonable they should suffer part, and have their share in the lose of this voyage, though, as I had let him see before, his going to Clyde would rather be to their advantage. The 21st was easy fair weather. At twelve of the clock we were, by observation, in 44 deg., and found the variation to be about 12 or 13 deg. The 22d was easy fair weather : we were, by observation, at twelve o'clock, in 42 deg. 43 min. ; the wind, about four o'clock, shifted by the W. to the northward. . The 23d, in the morning, it came easterly, variable. About six of the clock our gunner shot a dolphin with a bullet. Overhalling our bread, we found all in the bottom and midle smelled strongly of musk, which we concluded was the effects of the extraordinar heat, being very well assured there had never any thing of that kind of sent come near it. At twelve of the clock we were, by observation, in 44 deg. 51 min. This day was calme; and about one of the clock we saw a flock of foulls, which non aboard knew : they were about the bigness of a duke, of a gray colour, with a white neck, and a belly like the shoar water. We saw several pretty large tortoise, but could not have the opportunity to catch any of them, being all awake. The 24th, the wind was variable ; we lay till twelve of the clock N. be E., and were, by observation, in 45 deg. 3 min., and stood then away E.N.E. The 25th, the wind was at N.W. At two o'clock we were, by observation, in 46 deg., and continued our course this day. I prevailed with Mr. Robertson to augment the seamen’s allowance to a pound of beef and a pound of bread a-day a-man, which I do think reasonable enough, with the half pound of flour each man has for pudding. The 26th was thick, hazy, rainy weather, yet we had an observation in 46 deg. 49 min. I observed that the northerly winds, with rain, blows but faintly; but very brisk clear weather, and southerly wind, just contrary. About two o'clock we altered our course again to E. be N. The 27th was so thick and rainy, that we had no obser- vation : we were, by estimation, in 47 deg. 33 min. In the morning we saw a sail ahead, who lay by for us till we came up with her, which was about eleven o'clock. She had out French, and halled us ; we told whence, and imediatly she called to us to strik our pinnet, which we did not well know what to make of. We concluded her to be a pyrate, and therefore got all our cloaths on, and made sail without giving her further answer, and made all ready to fight. She stood after us awhile, the same course as we, E. be 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 367 N. ; but about three of the clock, a great thick fog coming on, before we lost sight of her, what way she took we cannot tell. The 28th, in the morning, we braik up, for our ship’s provision, another hogshead of pease, which we found not half full: this was near a month’s pease to the crew lost, so that I believe, had it pleased God they had been so long on their voyage as was proposed at their incoming, they should have found their provision scrimp enough. This day the wind varied northerly : we were, by observation, at twelve of the clock, in 48 deg. 19 min.: we then altered our course to E. This day I observed our pump-water altered colour, and stunk again, so that I fear there is both meal and more brandy amongst it. It grieves my spirit to think of our Company’s losses in general ; but the loss I fear they have in this cargo and voyage of ours particularly touches me, having some more than ordinary concern in it, and yet no way in my power to prevent the smallest extravagance thereof. I blame bade stewage allenerally for our great lakeage, and therefore will on no account be concerned in the delivering of her without a narrow review of some skillful indifferent people. The 29th and 30th were variable as to the winds, so as we made EH. way good. The one day with the other, being this last, at twelve o’clock, by observation, in 48 deg. 19 min. : again we continued our course E., wind variable. The 31st, the wind variable, our course E., by observation, at twelve of the clock, in 48 deg. 42 min. The 1st September, the wind was northerly, our course E., and at twelve of the clock we were, by observation, in 48 deg. 54 min. The 2d September, wind and course as before, by observation, at twelve o’clock, in 49 deg. 8 min.: we stood away E., a little northerly, Robertson reckoning himself further E. than I do by forty or fifty leagues; for this day I reckon my self 100 leagues from the Lizard, it bearing E., half northerly, which, with the variation, I judge a E. and by S. course by the compass, will fall in with, or near thereby. The 3d, at four morning, Robertson and his second mate, Jack, reckoned themselves in the soundings, and accordingly brought to the ship, but had no ground in 180 fathome line. We steered then away E. be S. : we were, by estimation, in 49 deg. 36 min. ; the wind was at N.W., thick, rainy weather, right channel weather, though I reckon myself 130 leagues from the Lizard, now at least sixty or seventy leagues astern of all our people. I confess it is but a guess I have, and therefore shall not be much concern’d though I be a litle mistaken. I reckon myself seventy or eighty 368 THE DARIEN PAPERS. 1700. leagues from soundings, conform to this course. At six of the clock at night our chief mate and our gunner reckoned on soundings: we accordingly brought two, but got no ground on 130 fathome line. The 4th, at one of the clock morning, we sounded again, but got no ground. At twelve o’clock we were, by observation, in 49 deg. 36 min. I now reckon myself ninety-five leagues from the Lizard, and from soundings, in an E. and be S. course, forty leagues. This day the wind northerly, our course E. be 8. This is by my books ; but by my mercator cart, I am only, by leagues, two miles from the Lizard, and so proportionably less from sounding, only thirteen leagues. We had ground this night, at six of the clock, on seventy-six fathom water. The 5th, the wind and course as before: at twelve o'clock, in the same latitude as the day before. I reckon myself forty leagues and four miles from the Lizard by my drafts, which I now believe will prove the truest, as I judge by our yesternight’s soundings, my books making too great distance betwixt them and the Lizard ; for by them I am yet sixty-eight leagues of it. About two of the clock the wind came in southerly, varying betwixt 8. and S.W. At six of the clock we had soundings again on seventy-five fathome. The 6th, the wind fixed at W.S.W.: we then had ground again on seventy fathome, which we judged by the colour to be 8S. of Sillie about fourteen leagues, so that we have all allowed our ship too much northerly course, though I have 7 or 8 min. less than any in the ship; yet, -if our conjecture now of those soundings be good, I will be at least 20 or 22 min. to the southward of our due course, so that there is not above half a point variation here. This wind is a very fair wind for St. George’s Channel, notwith- standing of our present course, and Mr. Robertson’s engagements to me to go there, should the wind be favourable ; but now I plainly find he never design’d that way, whatever advantage it might have been to the Company. We steer now away E.: at twelve this day we were, by observation, in 99 deg. 33 min., so that what I have said before of the variation is false, we having a degree or two more than one point, being much more northerly than we expected, and so mistaken in our soundings. We stand now away E. be N., the wind as before, and I reckon myself eighteen leagues from the Lizard, bearing E. northerly. The 7th, in forenoon, we made the Lizard, and by four. evening were up with it, bearing N. of us four or five leagues distance, so that this last reckoning of mine, by my drafts, will jump within 1700. THE DARIEN PAPERS. 369 ten or twelve leagues. This day I wrote a letter to Gleneagles, in his absence to Sir Francis Scot of Thirlestane, under cover to Mr. James Foulis, at London, or Mr. William Graham, there. I had not the opportunity to put this ashore till the 10th following, when we were forced to anchor under Dunginness, and I sent it by the post of Romney. My landlord’s name there was James Donaldson, at the sign of the Dolphin, a Scotsman. I see there also Ad. Dougal, a Clidsdale man, a pedlar, from whom I bought to the value of six pounds seventeen shillings. : ein ne t hag | 4 ‘Laer 5 n 7 ‘yt 4 wy Part se vies iret OR Oe ae ae . 5 Bo “Fidel yee) See UPS ‘ \, Phe ve Fic oF atari “ eh tty JeORY Agy EES ot} (Os! is’ + ‘ > i ae | vee? ait te von ‘ , who 8 oneal } + ‘ ss 7 sa? i) aes Ay a: vrata ral ie . ;’ , 4 f i ire beget n beet ’ "Se 4 rl : ad , be de A res pf - AY 0 e ‘ : t ’ tar + de oe dere 26 Feb. 1696. APPENDIX. LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS IN THEIR ORDER, WITH THE SUMS ENGAGED FOR. GENERAL SUBSCRIPTION Boox.* Edinburgh, the Twentie sexth day of February, One thousand sex hundered Nyntie sex yeares. Pursuant to an Act of Parliament, entituled, Act for a Company trading to Africa and the Indies, We, under Subscribers, do each of us for himself become obleidged for the payment of the respective soumes severally subscribed by us, subject to the Rules, Conditions, and Constitutions of the said Company. Anne Dutches of Hamilton and Chastlerault, &c., F . : £3000 Margarett Countesse of Rothesse, : 1000 Margarett Countesse of Rothesse, for her son Theres Earle of ulinpwiaed 1000 Lady Margarett Hope of Hopetoun, : : ; 1000 Lady Margarett Hope of Hopetoun, for her son Pepa , : 2000 Sir Robert Cheislie, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, : : 2000 Patrick Thomson, merchant, : ; : : . ; 1000 Sir William Hope of Kirklistone, : : : ; : 500 James Pringle of Torwoodlie, —. ‘ ‘ : : : 1000 John Carstairs of Kilconq’, : : ; : : 200 Sir James Hall of Dunglass, ; : : : : 1000 John Haliburtoun, younger of Mesasbeasinble? p : : : 100 ° * For an account of the Subscription Books, see the Preface. The fac-simile accompanying this will give an idea of the form in which each subscription was entered. 372 APPENDIX. William Martin, wryter in Edinburgh, John Craufurd of Fergushill, : Adam Cokburne of Ormestoun, Justice-Clerk, Francis Montgomerie of Gyffen, Hugh Stevenson of Montgreenan, Sir Robert Dickson of Sornbeg, Hugh Brown, wryter in Edinburgh, James Row, merchant in Edinburgh, Robert Twaddell, merchant in Middle Calder, John Drummond of Newtoun, Sir Patrick Aikenhead, Commissary Clerk of Edinburgh, Lieutenant-Collonell George Wishart, : ; John Bruce of Kinross, John Bruce of Kinross, for Peter Wadderbnek of Gosford, Lieutenant-Collonel Scipio Hill, George Clark, merchant in Edinburgh, Lieutenant-Colonell John Erskine, Lord Basil Hamilton, John Swinton of that ilk, : William Arskine, son to the deceased David Hava Ceitiia Adam Gordon of Dalphollie, Robert Pollock of that ilk, Lieutenant-Colonel James Bruce of enubs Robert Blackwood, James Balfour, John Jamesone of Belmont Thomas Pringle, wryter to the Signet, David Ramsay, merchant in Edinburgh, _ Sir Alexander Hope of Kerss, Master James Campbell, rate jaaieeaeal to the Earle of Ares Alexander Anstruther of Newarke, John M‘Pharlane of that ilk, George Baillie of Jerviswood, Patrick Porteous of Halkshaw, George Stirling, Doctor of Medicine, Sir Archibald Stevenson, Doctor of Medicine, Sir Francis Scott of Thirlestaine, Charles Charteris, merchant in Rainburgh, Hon. Earle of Kintore, 27 Feb. 1696. APPENDIX. Andrew Fletcher of Salton, William Morison of Preston Grainge, Captain Charles Straton, , Mr. Robert Innes, Writer to the Signet, ; Sir John Maxwell of Nether Pollok, Sir Robert Gordon of Gordonstoun, Mr. William Thomson, Writer to the Signet, Mr. James Smith of Whythill, David Crawford, Keeper of His Majestie’s Bigce: Sir Colin Campbell of Ardkinlass, ; Mr. Gilbert Campbell, son to Colin Campbell of Senta Laniioes : David Dickson, physician at Edinburgh, ‘ Thomas Gibson of Cramont, Richard Houison, Wryter in Edidburchie James Hamilton, Wryter to the Signet, in name of J spit Lord Pilato and as having commission from him, James Byres, merchant in Edinburgh, Alexander Innes, merchant, Sir Alexander Seton of Pitmedden, Biganct John Robertson, merchant in Edinburgh, William Spense, merchant in Edinburgh, Mr. Robert Bannerman, brother to the Laird of Elsick, William Cochran of Kilmarnock, Robert Watson, merchant in Edinburgh, James M‘Lurg, late Dean of Gild of Edinburgh, James Young, merchant in Edinburgh, David Hepburne of Humbie, Patrick Cokburne of Clerkingtoun, younger, Mr. Robert Merchistone, Minister of the Gospel, . John Hepburn, merchant in Edinburgh, John Dickson, merchant in Edinburgh, Alexander Heriot, merchant in Edinburgh, Alexander Wright, merchant in Edinburgh, Andrew Paterson, wright in Edinburgh, James Rocheid of Enderlith, Charles Olyphant, Doctor of Medicine, Henrie Rollo of Woodsyde, Archibald Cockburn, merchant, . : Matthew St. Clair, Doctor of Medicine, . 373 £1000 1000 500 200 1000 400 200 200 200 500 400 300 200 100 3000 500 200 300 300 900 200 1000 500 1000 200 500 300 200 100 100 100 200 200 500 200 400 400 500 374 APPENDIX. Hugh Paterson, chyrurgeon apothecary in Edinburgh, James Auchinleck, chyrurgeon apothecary in Edinburgh, David Lumsdain, son to Sir James Lumsdain of Innergelly, James Ramsay, Writer in Edinburgh, William Biggar of Woolmot, David Plenderleath of Blyth, Daniel Mackay, Writer in Edinburgh, Sir William Scott, younger of Harden, Alexander Monteith, chyrurgeon in Edinburgh, . Mr. James Elphinstone, one of the Commissaries of Edinburgh, John Watson, senior, merchant in Edinburgh, Doctor Alexander Cranstoun, Thomas Spense, Writer in Edinburgh, James Nasmyth, Depute-Clerk of Edinburgh, Robert Walwood, merchant in Edinburgh, Donald Simsone, Writer to the Signet, in name of ihealici Cassie of Kirkhotiasl and as having deputation from him, John Watson, younger, merchant in Edinburgh, Mr. Francis Grant of Cullen, Advocate, . George Home of Kimmerghame, George Home of Whytfield, Sir John Pringle of Stitchill, Duncan Forbes of Culloden, Arthur Forbes, younger of Echt, George Sutherland, merchant in Bashi: John Earle of Lauderdale, William Hay of Drumeiller, George Warrender, merchant in Hdiatinrcte George Home, merchant in Edinburgh, Hugh Cuningham, merchant in Edinburgh, Hugh Blair, merchant in Edinburgh, John Duncan, merchant in Edinburgh, David Burton, glazier in Edinburgh, Kenneth M‘Kenzie of Cromartie, Sir Alexander Jardin of wae John Hay of Alderston, Major John Forbes, Robert [ Balfour,] Master of Burleigh, Alexander Stevinsone, . APPENDIX. 375 28 Feb. James Allane of Sauchnell, j : : : : d £300 1626. Walter Boswell of Balbarton, : 100 William Montgomerie, merchant in Edinburgh, i in name , of J pi Sikes of Hoddom, and as having commission from him, : : : 200 James Murehead, chyrurgeon mek in Bact, : ? 200 John Nairne of Dichindad, : : : : 100 John Inglis, Writer to the Signet, Z : : . E 100 Robert Smyth, merchant in Edinburgh, . d ; L : 200 William Robertsone of Gladney, : : é : ; — 1000 Hugh Sandilands, feuar in Calder, y : z : : 100 William Eliot of Borthwick brae, : t : : Q 200 Robert Trotter, Writer in Edinburgh, . : : : : 200 Robert Hunter, merchant in Edinburgh, . ; : : : 100 John Wilkie, merchant in Edinburgh, . ; 3 : : 500 David Mitchell, baxter in Edinburgh, . : E : d 100 James Inglis, merchant in Edinburgh, . . : : : 200 John Haldane of Gleneagles, . : : ; t : 600 Mungo Greme of Gorthie, : : , ; i ‘ 500 Duncan Campbell of Monzie, : : ‘ E : d 500 James Oliphant of Williamstoune, : t : d 4 500 John Broun, skipper in Leith, . 200 William Martin, Writer in Edinburgh, in name of J — Porterfeild, Badiide’ german to Alexander Porterfeild of that ilk, : i : 100 James Mackenzie, son to the Viscount of Tarbat, , : : 1000 Thomas Andersone, ‘ é : : : 200 Thomas Justice, Wryter in Edinburgh; : . ; : J 200 Laurence Oliphant, merchant in Edinburgh, : é : d 100 Robert White of Conland, ‘ 3 : ; t 200 Isobell Cranston, sister to Doctor Clon: : : ; : 100 William Lord Saltoune, J : : ; - : 500 William Black, Advocate, ‘ : : : : : 100 Jobn Hay, merchant in Fraserburgh, 100 James Murehead, chirurgeon eigen in Edinbargh, for Marais Mure- head, his daughter, . 100 James Murehead, chirurgeon apothecary in Banbury ae Elizabeth wenn his daughter, A : : 5 : 100 Sir John Arskine of Alva, : : ‘ 300 Robert Arskine, brother-german to Sir J: dee Erskine of iis, " : 300 William Cochrane, Collector of the Supply of Renfrew, : : 100 29 Feb. 1696. 2 March 1696. 3 March 1696. 4 March 1696. 376 APPENDIX. Master David Williamson, Minister of the Gospell at the West Kirk, . £100 Adam Watt of Rosehill, ; : , J ; , 300 Harie Cheape of Rossie, younger, : 300 Marion Cleghorn, relic of Thomas Robertson, ts Baillie of Edinburg, 4 100 Adam Cleghorn, lawfull son to William Cleghorn, merchant in Ei 200 William Ainslie of Blackhill, ; : ‘ ‘ 500 John Angus, brewer in Edinburgh, : : : ; : 200 Thomas Dalrymple, Doctor of Medicine, ° . ; . 500 James Monteith of Auldcathie, . ‘ é 200 Robert Cheislie, Lord Provest of Edinburgh; for the alk town, . 3000 Alexander Monteith, present Deacon of the Incorporation of the Chishungiall of Edinburgh, for the Incorporation, . : . . é 600 David Lord Ruthven, . é 3 , : b ‘ 1000 John Carstairs of Kilcongq", : : : . : ‘ 100 Patrick Porteous of Halkshaw, . : ‘ ‘ - 800 John Porteous, merchant in Rteabiaieal ’ : ; , 100 Thomas Fairholme, Writer in Edinburgh, ; : ' : 200 Patrick Fermor, merchant in Edinburgh, 3 2 : t 300 Sir William Cuningham of Cuninghamhead, ; ‘ J 1000 Robert Nicolson, eldest son to the deceist Thomas Nicolson, Advent: , 100 George Livingstoune, taylor, burgess of Edinburgh, ; ‘ é 400 Alexander Dunbar, merchant in Edinburgh, ; : : é 100 James Stiell Elder, merchant in Edinburgh, ; . : 400 Jerome Robertson, periwig maker, burgess of EAiphantiss ‘ 100 Alexander Rule, Professor of the Orientall Languages in the rm + of Eainburgy 100 Laurence Don Taylor, burgess in Edinburgh, : . 200 John Smellum,.Doctor of Medicine, ; ; - 100 James Nicolson of Trabroun, lait Dean of Gild in | Edinburgh, ‘ : 200 Margaret Nicolsone Lady Dalry, : 100 Mrs. Anne Hamilton, daughter to the deceast Sir William Hessian of Preston, 100 William Nairne, baillie of Dalkeith, r = . : 100 David Robertsone, vintner in Edinburgh, ‘ f : ‘ 200 William Jamisone, glazier, burgess of Edinburgh, ‘ é . 100 Jean Kincaid, relict of the deceast George Thomsone of Maines, ; 100 Mr. Walter Pringle, Advocate, . 5 K é ‘ u 200 Thomas Pringle, Writer to the Signet, . ' 100 William Drummond, brother to Thomas Drain of Seaka Alana . 500 Charles Jackson, merchant in Edinburgh, ; : : d 100 William Rosse, vintner in Edinburgh, . s L J ; 200 APPENDIX. Mark Carse of Cockpen, Robert Mylne of Balfarge, Sir John Houstoune of that ilk, Sir John Houstoune of that ilk, for other Sir James Dunbar of Mochrum, Sir Humphry Colquhoun of Luss, Mr. David Dalrymple, Advocate, 5 March John Irving, chirurgeon in Drumfreis, in name of Thomas ving inrellatie » 2696. there, and as having a deputation from nee James Robertson, tylor in Canonget, Charles Charteris, merchant in Edinburgh, in name of William Charteris, Sheriff-Depute of Drumfreis, and as having a deputation from him, . Patrick Thomson, by virtew of ane Commission from the Guildrie of Stirling, Simon Jack, skipper in Leith, ’ Sir Thomas Murray of Glendoick, Sir Archibald Hope of Rankillor, curator to Sir William Hope of Giatotall his nephew, at his desire and is, consent of remanent curators, and in his name, Sir Archibald Bape of Rénkillor} one of Sensors of the Colledge of J fatiod John Carstairs of Kiicong’, : é ‘ 6 March Sir John Home of Blakader, 1696. John Wilkie, Writer to the Signet, depéiest for Walter Riddell of F rer tae John Anderson, coppersmith, burgess of Edinburgh, and present boxmaster of the Hammermen of Edinburgh, in their name and for their use and behoof, and as having warrand from them, Alexander Murray, son to John Murray of Touchadam, ‘id deiited Rr hiso; 7 March William Lamb, merchant in Edinburgh, é 1696. . John Gordon, Captain in Lord Stranraer’s Regiment, Samuell M‘Lellan, merchant in Edinburgh, 9 March Robert Bruce, goldsmith, burges of Edinburgh, deja be it ames fae of oe Wester Kinloch, Robert Bruce, goldsmith, burges of Edinburgh; detated: be Patrick Seton of Lathrisk, Robert Bruce, goldsmith, panes of Bainburgh — be ‘Nido Bailie of Parbroth, : F John Hamilton, Minister of the Giepetl in Edinburgh, - 10 March Robert Eliott of Midle-mill, Tone. George Cockburne, younger, merchant in etait: Thomas Mastertoune, merchant in Linlithgow, 3B 11 March 1696. 12 March 1696. 378 APPENDIX. Alexander Brand, merchant in Edinburgh, Andrew Browne of Dolphingtoune, Mr. David Ramsay, Writer to the Signet, Smitied by William Te Nairne, Mr. David Ramsay, Writer to the thi iit rae by pani Lady oe of Nairne, ‘ Sir Wm. Baird of N curtigaliny , Charles Divvie, merchant in Edinburgh, . John Porteous, merchant in Dalkeith, Alexander Dundas, Doctor of Medicine, . JZEneas M‘Leod, Town-Clerk of Edinburgh, in name a behalfe of prewes Viscount of Tarbat, and as having commission from him, ; : Sir John Baird of Newbyth, John Scrimsoure, merchant in Dundie, Robert Millar, merchant in Edinburgh, in name ail behalf of Walter Gunhaan in the Milne of Ghask in Perthshire, and as having commission from him, Robert Corbett, merchant in Drumfreis, in name and behalf of the Town of Drumfreis, and as having commission from the Town, Robert Corbett, merchant in Drumfreis, in name and behalf of Robert J ohn- stoun and John Reid, merchants in the said town of Drumfreis, and as having commission from them, Robert Corbett, merchant in Drumfreis, in name a behalf of J ohn Corbett, merchant in Dumfreis, and as having commission from him, Robert Corbett, merchant in Drumfreis, Francis Montgomerie of Gyffen, in name and behalf of eae Pikatieicia of Megginsh, and as having commission from him, Patrick ‘Thomson, merchant in Edinburgh, for James and Robert Watsons, merchants in ‘Stirling, sons to Duncan Watson, late bailie there, Robert Couper, Sheriff-Clerk of Selkrik, John Maxwell of Barncleugh, William Alves, Writer in Edinburgh, William Riddell, Writer in Edinburgh, deputed by J ts Sharpe of Hoddom, William Riddell, Writer in Edinburgh, as deputed by John Lanrick, Writer in Dumfries, Mr. John Wilkie, Writer. to the Sines, as = deputd by Robert aad younger of Maxwelltoun, George Clerk, junior, merchant in Bediaibaie as depute by J eas Steeles Provost of Stirling, : George Clerke, junior, merchant in Edinburgh, as 5 Mapetiod by J mit Stewart of Garntilly, : ‘ ; : : 13 March 1696. 14 March. 16 March. 17 March 1696. 18 March 1696. 19 March 1696. APPENDIX. 379 John Crosbie, merchant and present baillie of Drumfries, for himself, and as deputed by James Coulter, merchand in the said burgh, : £500 John Maxwell of Midlebie, as deputed by Robert Maxwell of Geaalbodk 200 James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, as deputed by Robert Johnston, late Provost in Drumfreis, _—.. ; 200 John Aitoun, son to Sir John Aitoun of that ilk, oud puted by i, 2 ~ 200 David Home, Writer in Edinburgh, é : : 100 ‘Alexander Waddell, Writer in Edinburgh, E : : ; 200 James Lyell of Garden, 100 Marion Somervell, relict of Wegies Purdie, tayo, barges of Bainburgh, 100 John Burd, merchant in Stirling, : ; 200 Walter Lockhart of Kirkton, : eo ‘ : : 100 James Crokat, merchant, burges in Htiabatech; 3 100 James Murehead, apothecary in io ea as sha = Ataf Harostsines of Craigs, . : , : : 200 William Carmichaell, Wes ; : ‘ 5 3 : 500 Captain Thomas Young, . , : : : : : 500 John Menzies, ‘Apiceee : : : ; 200 William Meinzies, merchant in Fatnburgh, : : ‘ : 1000 Mark Ker of Houndwood, E . if : - : 500 James Ker of Grainge, . ‘ : : : : 300 John Lord Hay of Yester, : : : : ; : 1000 William Nisbett of Dirleton, : ‘ 1000 David Lord Ruthven, deputed by Bieta aes of er ee : 100 David Lord Ruthven, deputed by James Craigie, Younger of Dumbarnie, 100 John Haldane of Glennaigles, deputed by Sir Patrick Murray of Auchertyre, 1000 Marie Stirling, lawfull daughter to the deceast Mr. John Stirling, Minister of the Gospell, once at Edinburgh, and last at nae : : : 100 Andrew Kerr, Younger of Kyppilaw, .. t : : 200 John Scougall, limner in Edinburgh, : : : 4 : 200 John Earle of Strathmore, : ¢ 500 John Haldane of Glennagles, deputed by J ames fie of Orchill, ’ 300 James Earle of Panmure, - : é 1000 Robert Reid, Lieutenant-Colonel to Koal fouled Sregiment, . 400 James Drummond, Writer in Edinburgh, ena be Mr. John Gdns of Aberuthven, 100 Gilbert Campbell, serait in Heeabecehs son to > Coline Campbel of Sahat Houses, : . : : : : : 200 20 March 1696. 21 March 1696. 380 APPENDIX. Gilbert Campbell, merchant in Edinburgh, son to Colline Campbell of Soutar Houses, James Pringle of Torwoodlie, depuied by Mrs. Katherin Hall, ili daubghbes to the deceased Sir John Hall of Dunglas, ‘ Daniel M‘Kay, Writer in Edinburgh, deputed by Captain ails MKay, younger of Borley, Patrick Campbell, Writer in Edinburgh, pate by Cepia aloaitl Robert- sone of Straloch, James Baillie, Writer in Edinburgh, Patrick Thomson, merchant in Edinburgh, for Cowie s Hospital in Stirling, D. Carmichell of Malslie, : William Robertsone of Gledney, deputed By Margate Chitin of Weymess, Alexander Murray, son to George Murray of Touchadam, deputed by him, Helen Watsone, relict of Gilbert M‘Kell, merchant in Edinburgh, for herself, Helen Watson, relict of Gilbert M‘Kel!, merchant in Edinburgh, for her daughter, Catherine M‘Kell, 5 : : Sir William Binning of Walliefurd, Thomas Young, late baillie in Edinburgh, Sir Colin Campbell of Aberuchill, one of the Sicha of the Colledge of Justice, t John Baillie, chyrurgeon a AE rei in Edinburgh, John Turnbull, merchant, : Andrew Robertsone, chyrurgeon in Edinburgh, pate by George Rabdstednty younger, merchant in Glasgow, Andrew Robertsone, chyrurgeon in Edinburgh, . George Stirling, servitor to Sir William Hamilton of Whytlaw, one of the Senators of the Colledge of Justice, . James Gregorie, student, i Jean Gray, relict of Adam Watsone, OE Ym in ‘Edinbargh; Hugh Cunynghame, Writer to the Signet, John Porteous, merchant in Dia Set 620; Mr. William Residaion} chyrurgeon in Dundee, Sir John Schaw of Greenock, George Earle of Southerland, ; ‘ John Irving, son to John Irving of Drumeoltone, in Tidsdnbnits : Alexander Gowenlock and William Clark, present deacons of the masons and wrights, in their names, and of the haill remanent Incorporations of Marie’s Chappell, and as having power and warrand from them, £100 1000 23 March 1696. 24 March 1696. APPENDIX. George Rome, Writer in Edinburgh, Patrick Halyburton, merchant in Edinburgh, John Halliburton, merchant in Edinburgh, Walter Pringle, advocate, deputed by Franck Pringle, his bieethids James Dunlop, collector at Borrostoness, William Ross, merchant in Edinburgh, deputed a btext Ross of fin encerRees James Pringle, brother-german to the Laird of Torsonce, John M‘Farlane, Writer to the Signet, David Mitchell, Doctor of Medicine, James M‘Lurg, Master of the Merchant Company of Bainburay in name of the Company, and by their order, , : Patrick Johnston, merchant in Edinburgh, Robert Hunter, merchant in Edinburgh, John Scott, third lawfull son to James Scott of Thirleston, John Forbes, brother-german to Samuell Forbes of Fovrain, deputed by the said Samuel Forbes, : John Forbes, brother-german to Samuel Pais of iviaia: ; James Gregory, Professor of Mathematiques in the Colledge of Edinburgh; Alexander Udny, son to the Laird of Udny, ; ; - James Pringle of Torwoodlie, . William Hall, son to Sir John Hall of Ditnptass° James Pringle of Torwoodlie, : : John Craufurd of Fergushill, Charles Earle of Southesque, Gideon Eliot, chirurgeon in Edinburgh, Robert Watson, merchant in Edinburgh, Joseph Young, merchant in Edinburgh, Henry Douglas, Keeper of the Signet, John Bairdie, Dean of Gild of Linlithgow, in name eof the Gui, and by their order, : : F Alexander Mastertoune, iced in Tadic gion Thomas Kincaid, son to Thomas Kincaid of Auchinreogh, Henry Balfour of Denbuye, Robert Douglas of Strahenrie, : William Wardrop, litster in Edinburgh, Sir Archibald Mure of Thorntoun, Patrick Murray of Livingstoun, Sir William Denham of West Shields, William Bonar, Clerk to the Mint, 381 £200 400 100 100 500 200 100 200 200 1200 500 100 100 1000 500 200 200 100 200 100 300 1000 500 900 300 200 300 100 500 100 100 100 1000 600 300 100 25 March 1696. 382 APPENDIX. Robert Martine of Barnbrsys, £ John Haldane of Gleneagles, deputed by Sir William Stirling of Aros le George Dundas, merchant in Leith, 5 3 : 10 Thomas Dischingtown, merchant in Leith, Ronald Campbell, Writer to his Majesty’s Signet, as heel paar? feck “Alexander Gordoune, son to Alexander Gordoun, minister at Inverary, James Kendall, skipper in Leith, ; , : F John Fairholme, Advocate, Robert Douglas, senior, sope-boyler in Leith, James Fairholme, merchant in Edinburgh, William Fultoun, merchant in Edinburgh, l ef ‘, Thomas Edgar, chirurgeon in Edinburgh, , : : Adam Gairdine of Greenhill, . : ; ; y William Graham, merchant in Eanburgh David Scrimsour of Cartmore, . : ~ ; 4 Major James Cuninghame of Aickett, Alexander Earle of Kellie, 4 Sir Thomas Burnet, doctor of medicine, David Drummond, Advocate, deputed by Thomas Giidne of Ralgoteadh David Drummond, Advocate, oe es John Drummond of Culquhalzie, James Holburne of Menstrie, d : A James Murray of Deuchar, " John Bairdie, merchant in Linlithgow, . John Marjoribanks, merchant in Edinburgh, Robert Scott of Elingstoun, Daniel Mackay, Writer in Edinburgh, depute by John Callceidat of Cris forth, : : : John Liberton, aaa in Edinburgh, . William Rutherfoord, Writer in Edinburgh, an i Thomas Ruther- foord of Knowsouth, ; 5 7» Thomas Whyte, elder, merchant in Edinburgh, James Meikle, maltman in Yeardheads of Leith, Thomas Dunlop, chirurgeon in Edinburgh, Francis Scott of Mangertoune, . James Wilkie, chamberlane to Lord baie for ides ve to his Gidgiilaasoak James Pringle, brother to John Hoppringle of that ilk, for him, conform = to his deputation, . ‘ ales ia ee Thomas Darling, one of the Tees of the Greanacis School of Bainburgh, Eats 100 James Halket, doctor of medicine, } ! . one! 108 a iz a 26 March 1696. APPENDIX. John Haldane of Gleneagles, James Law, elder, skipper, James Simpson, skipper, James Law, younger, Writer in EaGabargh, Sir Robert Sinclair of Stevenstoun, John Sinclair of Stevenstoun, Charles Hay, present deacon of the Teeiporatives of ah Haters of Fdin- burgh, in name of the said Incorporation, and as having procuratory and warrand from them, William Cleghorn, merchant in Dalkeith, John Geills, merchant in Edinburgh, Captain Edward Burd, commander of His Majesty’ s shin. the Bascal William, Robert Blackwood, merchant in Edinburgh, deputed e John Carstairs of Kilconq?, conform to his deputation, : F Thomas Kennedy of Kirkhill, Mr. David Williamson, minister of the Gospell at t the West Kirke, Alexander Dunbar, merchant in Edinburgh, conform to a deputation for Alexander Wedderburn, brother to Gosfoord, John Eidingtoune, Writer in Edinburgh, William Thomson, Writer in Edinburgh, John Cuninghame, Writer to the Signet, William Lawrie, tutor of Blackwood, é ! Patrick Thomson, merchant in Edinburgh, conform to a He aieian from the hospitall of Stirling called the Nether Hospitall, founded by Spittle, Robert Innes, Writer to the Signet, conform to a deputation from George Smyth, younger of Gibleston, Patrick Scott, Writer in Edinburgh, conform to a Hopatation fied John Seott of Comistoun, The above Patrick Scott, rice in Riaiaburgh, ae toa doomed fears Hercules Scott of Brothertoun, Alexander Innes, merchant in Edinburgh, Kathrine Binning Lady Bavelaw, : ‘ Alexander Finlayson, Writer in Edinburgh, by none from, and in name of Alexander Cochrane, younger of Craigmure, William Corrie, merchant in Achenskew, : John Haldane of Gleneagles, deputed by George Stirling of Efeshortehane Adam Galt, merchant in Edinburgh, deputed by Dame Bethea Harper Lady Cambusnethan, John Haldane of Gleneagles, dapuited by aor id Haldenth his pitiidecececnay 384 APPENDIX. Adam Blackader, merchant in Edinburgh, as factor for his brother, Captain John Blackader, in Flanders, : William Neilson, merchant in Edinburgh, John Learmond, merchant in Edinburgh, David Baillie, apothecary in Edinburgh, 3 Alexander Gibsone, one of the Clerks of Councill and Beatin : Mr. Hew Dalrymple, Advocat, commissionate by John Viscount of Staires, his brother, ‘ Mr. Hew Dalrymple, hale : Archibald Pitcairne, physician, . William Eccles, doctor of medicine, Harie Dow, Writer in piper 2 rae by Thomas Wont ecarinire’ in Stirling, Helen Drummond, spouse to Colonel Sai ames Wudgadh d as commissionate fy him, Henry Kendall, casi in Leith, James Murray of Sundhope, Henry Wyllie, merchant in Rdinburgh, Robert Trotter, Writer in Edinburgh, by warrand, oa in name of Side Crombie, sheriff-clerk of Roxburgh, Andrew Haliburton, brother to Newmains, William Haliburton, merchant in Edinburgh, : Mr. John Langlands, late minister of Hawick, by virtue of a dephtabicb trois Robert Rutherfurd, apothecary in Jedburgh, Mr. John Langlands, late minister of Hawick, by virtue of a aapatdicl feel William Rutherfurd of Falla, merchant in Jedburgh, Alexander Gibsone, one of the Clerks of Session, conform to the aepiatahibll from Dame Helen Fleming, Hugh Cunningham, merchant in Edinburgh, eof itl to ‘the deputation tide Mathew Moncreiff of Collforgie, William Wilson, one of the under Clerks of Soasibri James Montgomerie, Clerk to the Justice Court, Mr. John Flemyng, Advocate, . John Bruce, felt-maker in Edinburgh, Mr. Thomas Skene, Advocate, . John Drummond of Newtoun, . John Drummond of cipal for Ji bb Stewart of Dalguis, coil to deputation, , John Fairholme, Adv testes vee virtue of an Act of the Faculty of AtiWbeaites 100 100 March 27. March 28. APPENDIX. empowering him, as the present Thesaurer, in name of the Dean and remanent Members of the said Faculty, Alexander Kirkwood, servitor to the Lord Murray, Principal iSeareear of State, Alexander Baird, erent in Edinburgh, P Jannet Home Lady Eccles, : : . . , Alexander Johnstoune of Elshieshells, William Lord Nairne, depute by Margaret tady Thies of Naina! John Forbes, brother-german to Samuell Forbes of Fovrain, conform to ane deputation by Captain James Stewart, in Sir John Hill’s regiment, Governor of Fort William, : . John Forbes, brother-german to Samuell Forbes of Fovrain, sesnie by Allan Cathcart, in Sir John Hill’s regiment, John Forbes, brother-german to Samuell Forbes of Forman, tenis by Lieutenant John Wakinshaw, in Sir John Hill’s regiment, Thomas Forbes of Wattertoun, ‘ , William. Ross, merchant in Felco Robert Innes, merchant in Edinburgh, . Rachell Johnstoun, relict of Mr. Robert Baylie of J caged James Baillie, merchant in Edinburgh, . : James Spittell of Leughar, James M‘Leland, wright in pad pen David Pitcairn of Dreghorn, Captain William Henderson in George Mills regiment, John Baillie, chirurgeon and apothecary, : Andrew Brown, watchmaker, John Fraser, servitor to Alexander Innes, dimadi sk John Taillefoerr, merchant in Leith, William Selkrig, Writer in Edinburgh, . William Riddell, Writer in Edinburgh, . James Scott of Gala, . x ee Mr. John Murray, senior, Advocate, Adolphus Durham, merchant in Edinburgh, Gilbert Hall, Lieutenant of the Guards of Edinburgh, James Clelland, merchant in Edinburgh, John Chrystie, Writer in Edinburgh, deputed by Tmo, raat in Sloginholl, : - ‘ : : : George Lind, merchant in Edinburgh, John Scott of Gorrinberry, 385 £1000 100 500 © 100 400 300 100 100 100 200 100 100 200 200 200 100 100 100 400 100 100 100 100 100 600 100 400 200 100 100 200 200 386 APPENDIX. Robert Herdman, maltman in Leith, . : P ‘ ’ £100 James Watson, maltman in Leith, 3 : 100 Alexander Cunynghame, servitor to Sir Gilbert Eliot, ‘Aina ‘ 100 Henry Massie, merchant in Edinburgh,. . . . y " 100 John Eliot, Writer to the Signet, : 100 Walter Stewart of Pardivin, Provost of the Burgh of Linlithgow inname of the said Burgh’s common good, . . - 200 Robert Veitch, merchand in Edinburgh, : i , i 100 Thomas Smellie, merchant in Edinburgh, 2 : 1 ; 100 Walter Scott of Eadneshead, : . i ; : 200 William Hepburne of Beanstoun, }e ’ 7 ‘ 200 John Stewart, Writer in Clerk Gibsone’s dele : ‘ r 100 Alexander Clelland, junior, merchant in Edinburgh, wilh re 100 Patrick Fermor, merchant in Edinburgh, . : ‘ ° , 200 Gawen Plummer, merchant in Edinburgh, ‘ 300 Gawen Plummer, merchant in Edinburgh, conform to destin for Sir Patrick Scott of Ancrum, . = . are : , : 1000 John Hay, merchant in Edinburgh, . - .. 300 Mr. Gilbert Campbell, merchant in Edinburgh, son to Colline Campbell of wee Soutar Houses, ‘ 200 Mr. Gilbert Campbell, sions in Edinburgh, son to Colline Campbel of Soutar Houses, (more) : d 100 Gilbert Rule, doctor of medicine, ; ‘ ; : é 100 Thomas Aikman, Writer to the Signet, . . : 3 t 100 Edward Broun, merchant in Edinburgh, . " ‘ : . 200 James Steill, younger, merchant in Edinburgh, . ; ; 100 Robert Clerk, chirurgeon apothecary, Mere in Bainburg : : 200 James Pringle of Torwoodlie, . ‘ e 100 John Bethune, merchant in Dundie, . 4 3 . 100 James Gordon, senior, merchant in Aberdeen, . = ; f 250 Thomas Gordon, skipper in Leith, : : ‘ ‘ 100 Patrick Chalmers, beltmaker, burges of Edinburgh; , ; P 500 Thomas Mitchell, merchant in Aberdeen, : ; 200 Archibald Steuarte, chirurgeon, son to William Stewart: of Balleide, : 100 George Pitcarne, one of the Commissars of Dunkeld, . : ie 100 Adam Gordon of Dalpholly, —. : 500 George Turnbull, Writer in Edinburgh, poe i to Sis deyuithciaa by Robert Gardyne, younger of Latoune, 5 ; ‘ ; 100 Colin Campbell of Lochlan, . . ; : ‘ “% 4 200 30 March 1696. APPENDIX. Thomas Graeme of Balgowane, by virtue of a deputation from David Graeme of Kilor, Patrick Coutts, merchant in Hidinbenpts bing depute by tard Robertsone, merchant in Dundie, . : David Drummond of Cultimalindie, P é Dam Isabell Nicolson Lady Cockpen, elder, Mrs. Janet Carse, sister to Mark Carse of Cockpen, Dam Isabell Nicolson Lady Cockpen, elder, for her son, John eas John Drummond, brother to David Drummond of Cultimalindie, James Blackwood, son to Robert Blackwood, merchant in Edinburgh, William Nicolson, merchant in Edinburgh, James Elphingstoun, one of the Commissars of Edinburgh, John Hendrie, present Deacon of the Cordiners of Edinburgh, in name of the said Incorporation, Sir James Flemyeing of Taathobayee. James Marquess of Montrose, William Hutton, merchant in Faiabairgts é John Murray, doctor of medicine, for Mr. James airy: aieareein in Perth, conform to a deputation, James Miln, apothecary in Edinburgh, William Dykes, Writer to the Signet, Alexander Biggar, brewer in Gairnshall, . Helen Trotter Lady Crumstone, William Stewart, doctor of medicine at Pash Duncan Williamsone, Writer in Edinburgh, Patrick Campbell, Writer in Edinburgh, being giles ita Helen Steuart, relict of Doctor Murray, . ‘ ‘ John Spens of Blair, George Lind, merchant in Bidtatiieals James Drummond, one of the Clerks to the Bills, being dgpated by adits Meinzies of Shian, ; . : Robert Stewart, Junior, Advocate, Sir. Thomas Burnet, doctor of medicine, . Master Donald Robertsone, minister of the Gospell, Sir David Home of Crossrig, one of the Senators of the College of J wisttads John Hogg, Writer in Edinburgh, Thomas Mercer, Writer in Edinburgh, Duncan Campbell of Monzie, by deputation from J ohn Daiitnnsti of Gigi! halzie, . : : ; 387 £200 200 600 100 100 100 200 300 100 500 100 500 1000 100 200 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 600 200 100 300 100 100 500 100 100 100 388 APPENDIX. John Richie, merchant in Edinburgh, Lieutenant-Colonel John Erskine, son to the ae Barings depatid by Captain John Erskine, brother to the Laird of Alva, Lieutenant-Colonel John Erskine, son to the Lord Cardross, depeiiia by Francis Napier, one of the present Baillies of Stirling, Lieutenant-Colonel John Erskine, son to the Lord Cardross, depute by Hary Christisone, Commissary of Stirling, John Marquesse of Athole, John Bruce of Kinross, for Sir Charles Halket of Piero, Jolin Pringle, merchant in Edinburgh, ‘ William Cleland, servitor to the Lady Drylaw, be virtue of ane > depotatin from Isobell Foulis Lady Drylaw, ; : Alison Karr, relict of the deceast John Karr, neni in Kelsoe, Sir Alexander Seton of Pitmedden, Baronet, John Haldane of Gleneagles, deputed by James Murray at bthcidedeh Milne, John Haldane of Gleneagles, deputed by William Oliphant of Gask, Andrew Thomsone, servitor to Charles Divvie, merchant in Edinburgh, . John Dallas, son to George Dallas of St. Martines, Duncan Ronald, Writer to the Signet, John Kinloch, Writer in Edinburgh, William Wisheart, minister of the Gospell in South Leith, Elizabeth Scott, relict of Captain James pena John Marquess of Tweeddale, Margaret Countess of Roxburghe, Lord David Hay, John Hay, servant to the Hara ties of Tweedale, Alexander Ramsay, servant to the Marquess of Tweeddale, John Dickson, servant to the Marquess of Tweeddale, John Kennedy, apothecary, burgess of Edinburgh, Margaret Hamiltoun Lady Bengowar, : James Hamilton, Advocate, . Daniel Hamilton, Writer in Hdinhtigl: d Walter Riddell, younger of that ilk, Thomas Johnstone, merchant in Edinburgh, John Dunbar, merchant in Edinburgh, . Marian Preston, daughter to Sir William Pitdetedt of Vallyfield, Alexander Keith, Writer in Edinburgh, Patrick Thomson,. elder, . Alexander Baird, merchant in Edinburgh; £100 APPENDIX. Robert Trotter, President of the Royal Colledge of Physicians at ae John Hay, chirurgeon, apothecary in Edinburgh, . : James Guthrie, merchant in Dundee, James Guthrie, merchant in Dundee, deputed by J ohn Scott, John Skein, younger of Hallyairds in Fyfe, : : James Dykes, cordiner in the Canongate, William Meinzies, merchant in Edinburgh, Alexander Forbes of Tolquhon, Patricia Ruthven, grandchild to the Earl of esiaied: George Kinnaird, brother to the Lord Kinnaird, Robert Murray, merchant in Edinburgh, . Walter Murray, merchant in Edinburgh, Mary Rymor, relict of David Montyre, merchant in Edinburgh, Robert Fraser, Advocate, deputed by Alexander Duff of icsanain John Frank, Advocate, 2 ‘ : : Robert Currie, merchant in Edinburgh, Master Arthur Forbes, son to the Laird of Cragivar, Robert Fraser, Advocate, ; : : : ; Barbara Fraser, relict of George Stirling, chirurgeon apothecary in Edin- burgh, : Barbara Fraser, relict of Gane Suisling, peeves Lchdacia in ‘Bdiuharzh, for her daughter, Elizabeth Stirling, ‘ : : William Wightman, skinner, burges in Edinburgh, Robert Reid, merchant in Edinburgh, Alexander Johnston, merchant in Edinburgh, David Earle of Northesk, Robert Innes, Writer to the Signet, for aks in name of Cecilia Hochesinpiiteac Lady Kelcy, : - : : Sir Robert Sinclair of Stevenstoun, for Charles Sinclair, faded his son, Hugh Grahame, merchant in Edinburgh, nae by James a: elder in Rose, ‘ a : J Thomas Scott, younger, as tore in Tinie Thomas Scott, younger, merchant in Dundie, deputed a Mevaslon Blair, Dean of Gild, in name of the gildrie of the said burgh, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Alexander Duncan of Lundie, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Patrick Ogilvie of Balfour, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Henry Crawfurd of Minorgan, The said Thomas Scott; deputed by James Fletcher, Provost of Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by John Duncan, late Baillie of Dundee, 100 100 200 1000 400 300 200 200 390 APPENDIX. The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Andrew Smeaton, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Patrick Kyde, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Henry Crawfurd, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by John Duncan, late baillie there, who was deputed by George Greive, apothecary there, for the said George Greive, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by David Maxwell, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Alexander Blair, Dean of Gild in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Thomas Robertson, merchant there, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Thomas Muddie, one of the baillies of Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, daa by ‘Auidver Waghganal late baillie i in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by John Scott, elder, late baillie in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by James Alisone, late baillie in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by David Drummond, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by David Ramsay, elder, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Thomas Bowar, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Alexander Bruce, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Alexander Auchterlony, indweller in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Archibald Arnot, apothecary in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Robert Watsone, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Alexander Prestoun, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Thomas Fairweather, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Patrick Tod, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Robert Hunter of Baldovie, , The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Robert Lindsay, merchant in pelea The said Thomas Scott, deputed by George Crockatt, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Peter Wedderburne, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Thomas Abercrombie, skipper in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Robert Wardroper, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Patrick Balnevies, late baillie in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by John Dick, Writer in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by John Gray, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by John Patersone of Craigie, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by George Fotheringhame of Fences The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Patrick Zeaman, late baillie of Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by John Watsone, Doctor of Medicine, The said Thomas Scott, deputed by Andrew Smeaton, for the Seamen’s Box of Dundee, ; The said Thomas Scott, deputed i William Motendie ioniialial in Lonnie, 120 31 March 1696. APPENDIX. 391 Dame Jean Scott, Lady Harden, ; i 3 ; é £100 Mrs. Jean Hay, spouse to Captain Lothian, : 100 Mrs. Anne Stewart, daughter to the deceast John Blewate of Rinttlest ba: 100 Mrs. Elizabeth Pillans, daughter to the deceast James Pillans, late Regent in the Colledge of Edinburgh, : 100 Elizabeth Blackwood, daughter to Robert Biackirood, ciaietnt in » Eainburh 100 Andrew Cockburne, merchant in Edinburgh, . : ; 100 Alexander Innes of Cookstoun, . i - re : 200 Lady Lillias Kerr, sister to the Earle of weenie: ! ‘ : 100 William Earle of Annandale, : : , ‘ y ; 1000 Sir William Anstruther of Anstruther, ‘ ; , 4c 400 William Baillie of Lamington, . ; : : Mer tee 1000 John Duncan, merchant in Edinburgh, , : 2 x: 500 Robert Anstruther of Wrea, ; 300 John Duncan, merchant in Edinburgh, depated by Dota Partick Halybarton, 100 Sir Archibald Murray of Blackbarrony, . A 2 : 500 Andrew Tennent, vintner in Edinburgh, A : ; : 100 Andrew Paterson, wright in Edinburgh, : ; ; : 100 Alexander Cleghorn, merchant in Edinburgh, . : iki : 100 William Stewart, clerk to his Majesty’s Customs at Leith, ‘ 3 100 Christian Grierson, daughter to the deceast John Grierson, 4 : 100 Robert Douglas, junior, sope-boiler in Leith, : : 100 William Oliphant, merchant in Dundee, for his son, J sik Oliphant, : 100 Jesper Johnstoune of Waristoun, : : : : : 500 Sir John Gibson of Pentland, . % ‘ : : 400 Alexander Wood, merchant in Edinburgh, : 200 Alexander Forbes, goldsmith in Edinburgh, in the name aa upon the ac- count of Alexander Sheriff, Writer in Edinburgh, conform to deputation, 100 Alexander Forbes, goldsmith in Edinburgh, : : ; : 200 Master John Campbell, Writer to the Signet, . ; é : 200 Thomas Campbell, flesher in Edinburgh, : ; i ; 200 John Mitchell, vintner in Edinburgh, . , : é : 100 Thomas Gibson of Cramon, : : ; : : : 300 James Dalrymple of Killoch, : 400 William Wellwood, son to the deceast Hen Wellw ood, ss aaa atte} in HeGubeegt 500 Robert Pringle, merchant, burgess of Edinburgh, ‘ : ; 100 James Duke of Queensberry, : : : : i : 8000 Archibald Earle of Argyll, é : : : p : 1500 William Lord Jedburgh, : : : , 4 s 1500 392 APPENDIX. James Campbell, brother-german to the Earle of Argyll, ‘ Alexander Douglas, Guiddon and Major to his Majesty’s Troop of a Elizabeth Syme, relict of Sir Robert Cault, Advocat, . " Alexander Edgar, provost of Hadingtoune, commissionate by the said outs William Johnston, postmaster of Hadingtoun, John Williamsone, merchant in Edinburgh, John Olipher, merchant in Edinburgh, . George Lothian, junior, merchant in Edinburgh, John Geills, merchant in Edinburgh, Sir James Murray of Philiphaugh, William Lord Cranstoun, George Lockhart of Carnwath, James Laing, merchant in Edinburgh, John Mathie, skipper in Prestonpans, John Ewing, Writer in Edinburgh, William Broun, merchant in Edinburgh, Andrew Murray, brother to Sundhope, James Cleland, younger, merchant in Eainburgh son to James Cleland, Edinburgh, : William M‘Lean, master of the Se elinj- +4 John Cameron, son to the deceast Donald Cameron, siacchia f in Edinburgh, John Wightman, skinner in Edinburgh, James Brisbane, Writer to the Signet, . ‘ : ‘ George Livingston, wright in Edinburgh, Richard Miller, baillie in Hadingtoun, Richard Miller, baillie in Haddingtoun, as dept for taeiepe Aiidamiidhes merchant there, ; ; ‘ Robert Blackwood, merchant in Rainbargh, Lieutenant-Colonel John Wisheart, for Captain James Wisheart, his brothel Patrick Dundas, lawful son to James Dundas of Brestmyln, John Duncan, merchant in Edinburgh, , William Bonar, clerk to the Mint, Robert Kennedy of Auchtifardell, David Forbes, Advocate, George Kinnaird, in name of his brother, ‘ride Kinnaird, George Seton, second son to Lord Pitmedden, William Rutherfoord, doctor of medicine, : William Wightman, skinner in Edinburgh, for the Fnohipcilian of Shinsipeb there, ; : 4 ‘ 100 100 100 1000 1000 100 500 100 Afternoon. APPENDIX. Patrick Crawfurd, brother to John Crawfurd of Kilbirnie, Captain John Forbes of Forbestoune, ; : William Livingston, glover in Edinburgh, George Fenwick, vintner in Edinburgh, Samuell Gray, Writer in Edinburgh, John Currie, merchant in Edinburgh, Alexander Stevinsone, merchant in Edinburgh, for Marian Borthwick: aes of James Cuninghame, couper in Leith, she being personalie present, and allowing him to subscribe for her, : . Penelope Areskine, sister to Alexander Areskine of Cambo, Sir Alexander Areskine of Cambo, John Flemyng, Advocate, deputed by the Biayost Bali ae Powit Counsell of Perth, John Fleming, Advocate, desnited by Walter Stim at the Milns of Pit- cairnie, in Perthshire, : : : : William Livingston of Kilsyth, Sir Alexander Monro of Bearcrofts, Thomas Scheill, Writer in Edinburgh, James Gregorie, student of medicine, Robert Innes, merchant in Edinburgh, for John Bailie of Wena asia his deputation, ° : ‘ : Alexander Home, Writer to the Sisk, James Byres, merchant in Edinburgh, William Kelso, Writer in Edinburgh, Thomas Weir, chyrurgeon in Edinburgh, Alexander Glas, Writer to the Signet, Charles Jackson, merchant in Edinburgh, Charles Jackson, merchant in Edinburgh, for J ihe Threpang Eder a in Perth, : : : Andrew Law, goldsmith in n Hdintucesh James Martine, late Regent in St. Andrew’s, William Maitland, brother to the Earle of Lauderdale, Patrick Hume, Master of Polwarth, in name of his father, Lord Bobpaith, Patrick Hume, Master of Polwarth, for himself, . é : Alexander Hume, son to Lord Polwarth, « Alexander Mylne of Carriden, Sir David Home of Crossrig, for Sir J: alia Home of Bhakader, caer fe his deputation, Lieutenant-Colonel John Wisheart, for ae William Wisheart, minister at Leith, 3D 393 £100 200 100 100 100 100 100 100 200 2000 150 1000 200 100 100 200 200 200 200 100 100 100 100 200 250 250: 500 300 200 200 400 100 394 APPENDIX. Edward Eizatt, merchant in Edinburgh, Robert Fergus, merchant in Edinburgh, Thomas Scott, younger, merchant in Dundee, deate * Manito Ried, present baillie in Dundee, 4 The said Thomas Scott, depute by William Ried, dasechandt in Drandes, i The said Thomas Scott, depute by John Ferrier, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, depute by Alexander Duncan, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, depute by Henry Smith, merchant in Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, depute by James Ramsay, clerk-depute of Dundee, The said Thomas Scott, depute by Rachell Zeaman, relict of George Forrester of Knap, Thomas Fairholme, inesiilindt in ‘Edinburgh, depute by Adam Gairdine of Greenhill, ; : Katharin Charteris, deoghice to Taaudeas Charteris, haste Mr. Michael Lumsden, Advocate, : Francis Brodie, merchant in Edinburgh, Mr, John Ker, brother-german to the Earle of Rosiargh, Mr. William Ker, brother-german to the Earle of Roxburgh, James Hamilton, chirurgeon apothecary in Edinburgh, John Chatto, elder, merchant in Edinburgh, Henry Mein, merchant in Edinburgh, Thomas Ker, goldsmith in Edinburgh, Mungo Campbell of Burnbank, ; Robert Forrester, merchant in Edinburgh, Alexander Wilkiesone, Writer in Edinburgh, George Lausone, younger, merchant in Edinburgh, James Baillye, Writer to his Majesty’s Signet, Captain John Brodie, of Lord Murray’s Regiment, Alexander Dunbar, tailzeor in Edinburgh, John Murray, junior, merchant in Edinburgh, Robert Murray, burges in Edinburgh, ° James Broun, son to Hew Broun, surgeon and Va in Exlinburgh, John Broun, skipper in Leith, for the Trinitie House of Leith, conform to deputation, . John Broun, skipper in Leith, é James Broun, senior, chirurgeon in Edinburgh, . Margaret Hepburn, daughter to the deceased mM Hepbam, niece’ in Edinburgh, ‘ Richard Dickson, iaeieaes in Edinburgh, APPENDIX. 395 Robert Inglis, goldsmith in Edinburgh, . : ; : ‘ £100 Robert Hepburne of Whytbrugh, : é ‘ : “i 200 Dougall Campbell of Sadell, . 3. ; f : : 100 John Currie, merchant in Linlithgow, . : ‘ ‘ 100 Ronald Campbell, Writer to his Majesty’s Signe ' i : 200 Andrew Rutherfoord of Edgerston, : ‘ ‘ ; 200 Charles Mitchell, Writer in Edinburgh, . : ‘ : 100 Jean Lockhart, relict of James Graeham, vintner in dinbiieehy , 100 David Earle of Leven, . : 2000 Mrs. Christian Dundas, daughter of William Denies of Kinkavell, manent? 200 James Auchinleck, chyrurgeon apothecary in Edinburgh, E : 100 Alexander Finlayson, Writer in Edinburgh, : ‘ 100 Andrew Johnston, servant to William Paterson, Esq., by virtue of a sentation from Henrietta Dalyel of Glenae,_ . : ; ‘ " 200 Alexander Brand, merchant, . : , ; ‘ 500 George Turnbull, Writer in ea , ‘ : , 100 Mr. James Dowie, merchant in Edinburgh, : f : : 100 John Stuart, Writer in Edinburgh, ‘ ‘ ‘ : 100 Robert Rutherfurd, merchant in Edinburgh,. . , F ; 200 Patrick Craufurd, writer in Edinburgh, . : ‘ : ; 200 Colin Alison, sub-collector of his Majesty’s Excise, ‘ : 100 John Barclay, chirurgeon, of Cupar of Fyfe, ‘ 200 Samuell M‘Clellan, merchant in Dundee, for William Maxwell, cngitain in Colonel Maitlen his regiment of foot, p 4 ‘ : 200 Adam Freer, doctor of medicine, ‘ ; y 200 William Robertson, ane of the sub-clerks of the ae ‘ ‘ 100 David Ireland, present deacon of the taylors in Easter Bondhasih, in name of the Incorporation of Taylors there, and by their Pome; : 100 David Ramsay, merchant in Edinburgh, . , y ‘ ’ 100 John Somervell of Gledstains, merchant in Edinburgh, . } 200 John Knox, chyrurgeon to the garrison in the Castle, . 100 James Broun, chirurgeon in Edinburgh, depute by John Ronald, Parco there, for his daughter, Elizabeth Ronald, . ; 100 The said James Broun, depute by the said John Ronald, for his son, J ames Ronald, : 100 The said James Broun, antes by the Hi) as Ronald, for his son, Jahn Ronald, : 100 Alexander Cleland, eran in eaabuten, for Jonti Cleland, fnercheni there, his brother, : : : ; : 100 7 April. 396 APPENDIX. Alexander Smith, Writer in Edinburgh, Mr. William Scott, Professor of Philosophy in the College of Bainburh Alexander Udny, son to the Laird of Udny, “| Kaitherin Trotter, Lady Craigleith, : Dame Elizabeth Trotter, Lady Nicolsone, 3 Mrs. Margaret Marjoribanks, daughter to Andrew Mixjchitaaseay Lady Neill Campbell, : d Mary Murray, Lady Enterkin, wid, John Lord Carmichaell, Sir George Campbell of Cesnock, : Lieutenant-Colonel John Erskine, for David iced Capitiviny John Drummond of Newtoun, for William Viscount of Strathallan, snnalnett to deputation, ; John Swinton of that ilk, for a Siac, ee Boxis, John Swinton of that ilk, for Johnstoun, Ladie Gradon, William Douglas, merchant in Dalkeith, John Shaw, late of Sornbeg, Lieutenant-Colonel Erskine, son to the Lord Csbdrasi for Fidentia Shaw of Saudhie Lieutenant-Colonel John Erskine, son to the Lord Cardross, for David Traill, son to Ensign James Traill, in the castle of Stirling, : James Ker of Grainge, for Mrs. Margaret Rig at to the cai of Blackburne, conform to deputation, Thomas Robertson of Lochbank, William Jaffray, merchant in Edinburg for Robert Whyte of Bammioelde: conform to deputation, William Jaffray, merchant in Edinburgh, “for J thin Whyte, inaielonves of Kirk- aldy, conform to deputation, William Jaffray, merchant in Edinburgh, for J ames J ay, shipmase in Kirkaldy, conform to deputation, James Maxwell of Marksworth, merchant in Ghetite Thomas Fullerton, late commander of the little friggot called William and Mary, appointed by the King to attend the garrison of Fort-William, Robert Watsone, Writer to the Signet, ‘ Hugh Cuningham, merchant in Edinburgh, by virtue of ane dopiatieheadd from William Dunbar, son to the Laird of Durn, Andrew Houstoun, Writer in Edinburgh, by virtue of a depitigiban from Robert M‘Dowall, younger of Logane, John Kinloch, Writer in iE Sia for Thomas + Mylne of Mylnefel con- form to deputation, 100 150 APPENDIX. John Kinloch, Writer in Edinburgh, for Robert Kinloch, late bailie in Dun- dee, conform to deputation, : - : John Smith, younger, merchant in Lijit George Christie, present dickin of the Incorporation of the Bastichy of the Canongate, for the said Incorporation, bay ane acke of the tread, . William Black,- Advocate, for William Moir, brother-german to James Moir of Stonywood, conform to deputation, : The said William Black, for Patrick Sandilands of Biotin pelitorin to depo tation, The said William Black, for John Sandilands of Cousttearall Sealhict to depu- tation, - : . - : William Brotherstone, hinnidchaler in Canongate, E Patrick Falconar of Mounsitoune, for James Carnegie, of Balnamoon, ennai to deputation, ; ; John Hamilton, chamberland to the Earle of Cassillis, Robert Fraser, Advocate, for Hugh Haber Provost of Invernes, thes to deputation, Robert Fraser, Advocate, for William Dutfe of Diple, pinhead to ideation Robert Fraser, Advocate, for James M‘Lean, baillie of Invernes, conform to deputation, ; : : Robert Fraser, Advocate, for J ‘hn M‘Intosh, baillie of facoukad conform to deputation, . p : : : : : Robert Fraser, Advocate, for John Ene merchant of Inverness, conform to deputation, 3 F Robert Fraser, Advocate, for James Devts of Migeaieet late baillie of Eee nes, conform to deputation, : : Robert Fraser, Advocate, for Alexander MTemid seein of awed con- form to deputation, ; Robert Fraser, Advocate, for Robert Hoos late baillie of Betas eons to deputation, : : Robert Fraser, Advocate, for James Bite ; =e of iene oo to deputation, E , Robert Fraser, Advocate, for Riccar Spars icipes at ae aati to deputation, : Robert Fraser, Advocate, for Guttes Bpedfidan sieht in Reset atone to deputation, Robert Fraser, Advocate, for Geare Cuthbert of Castlehill, sollte to dep: tation, 397 £100 100 100 500 100 200 100 900 100 100 160 100 100 100 180 150 140 150 150 100 150 9 April 1696. 398 APPENDIX. Robert Fraser, Advocate, for William Robertson of Inshes, conform to Rit tation, . ° . ° John Lyon, Sheriff-Clerk of Forfar, ‘ . . George Mosman, bookseller in Edinburgh, Isobell Tyrie Lady Glasclune, . David Spence, Writer in Edinburgh, for the Magidrities of Brechin, oonfstin to deputation, : David Spence, Writer in Edinburgh, for David Ear of Keio cali to deputation, : Edward Cleghorne, goldsmith in Edinburgh, Patrick Scott, Writer in Edinburgh, for James Scott of Beobats, ‘hig Heke german, conform to deputation, Lord Basill Hamilton, deputed by Susan Danntise of rr: Pi his tars Elizabeth White Lady Southhouse, for William Fullertoun, son to John Fullertoun of Kinaber, her ei kde herself, and failzieing of her, her grandchild, Robert Fraser, Advocate, for James Skoon of Naw. Crate AA: she to Nail tation, . David Carmichaell, son to the Tend Carmichacll, . Daniell Weir, brother to the Laird of Stonebyres, James Douglas, minister at Stow, : William Bryssone, slaiter, late baillie of elie: : James Drummond, one of the Clerks of the Bills, for Robert Meteadea in Abate fadie, conform to deputation, James Ballingall, maltman in Strathmeiglo, Robert Couper, baillie in Strathmiglo, ; Robert Kellie, present baillie of Dunbar, for the communitie of the said pans by virtue of an order from the Councill of the town, . Robert Kellie, present baillie of Dunbar, . George Rutherfoord of Farningtoun, ‘ Thomas Carrathers, bookseller in Edinburgh, depcalal bi John “Maxwell of Midleby, Andrew Thomson, jiaehaliy’ in Edinburgh, dept 7 William Allin, teow, burges of Stirling, George Warrender, merchant in Edinburgh, Patrick Thomson, merchant in Edinburgh, si by cP ames Russel Piet of the Baxters of Stirling, Robert Keith of Feddret, . ‘ 120 100 300 APPENDIX. Lieutenant-Colonel John Erskine, depute by William M‘Gie, precentor in the church of Stirling, William Lawrie, tutor, Blackwood, dese by James ews of en David Crawford, Keeper of his Majesty’s Signet, . John Drummond of Newtoun, depute by John Micat of Camocky Ad vocate, William Ferrier, finda - bate isk in Padkinistie! as aioe com- mission from the said incorporation, John Drummond of Newtoun, depute by Dame ” ean ees nai Ai Robert Brown of Newhall, z : - ; : Archibald Sinclair, Advocate, : John Hay, merchant in Edinburgh, id pation fies J ied Tastee of Bedaster, . Patrick Campbell, Writer i in Edinburgh, - Thomas Mitchell, baillie of Aberdeen, for + aes Oise! onside es of 14 Apryle. gild of the said city, by virtue of his deputation, for the use of the a brethren of the said city of Aberdein, John Murray, doctor of medecine, for William Murray of f Arony, by virtue of his deputation, : : : Colen Campbell of Bogholt, George Fullartoune of Draghorne, : i William Areskine, son to David Lord Cardross, for his sister Vi aoe Are- skine, by virtue of her deputation, William Areskine, son to the deceased David ee Carlos for the mea Margaret Napier, by virtue of her SORE John Crosbie, merchant in Dumfreis, George Loch of Draylie, . 2 James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, dean isp John eee arent Pro- vost of Dumfries, as per his bond and disposition, James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, depute by Hew Lind, eee there, Robert Bruce, flood in Eainburgh debt be Robert Hexict, alias Craig of Ramornie, : Adam Cokburne of Ormestoun, % siaio- Clerks, as Neve RE abi bees Christian Countes Dowager of Hadingtoun, . Adam Cokburne of Ormestoun, Justice-Clerk, as fetes ee a Charles Hamiltoun, son to the lat Earle of Hadingtoun - Patrick Kinninmound, present deacon of the taylors of the * eet in name of the Incorporation of Taylors there, . 399 £100 200 200 100 16 Aprill. 400 : APPENDIX. William Black, ade as having commission from Sir Thomas Burnet of Leyes, : . The said William Black, as ete commission fh James £Bedhinass merchant in Aberdeen, William Arthur, taylor Mia bie of anadjeeas Andrew Simpson in Pendrich, James Smith of Whythill, for James Smith, architect at Frain; Robert Trotter, Writer in Edinburgh, as being commissionat by Archibald Douglas, brother to Sir William Douglas of Cavers, David Spence, Writer in Edinburgh, for the Magistrates of Brechine, Siva to deputation, for account of the said Magistrates for the common use of the town, . ~ Mrs. Ann Livingtoun, sister-german to erase Livaigtdins of Saltcots, William Gordone, Writer in Edinburgh, . : ‘ Robert Weems of Crangemuir, Mary Simpson, relict of Robert Tsiseliobad minister of Licata Captain James Gibbons of Colonel M‘Gill’s regiment, John Frank, Advocate, as deputed by James Williamsone of Condes, The said John Frank, Thomas Halyday, Town Clerk of Selkirk, as néving commission from the com- munity of the said burgh, in name of the community of the said burgh, The said Thomas Halliday, conform to deputation for Walter Scott, brother- german to Raeburne, The said Thomas Halliday, cate to deputation ae William Guid in Newhouse, The said Thomas Haliday, enatubis to ceputatin is William Ogilvie i in Todshawhill, Sir John Shaw of Ghodaadliy, elated to the ‘etadacds of Mrs. Elizabeth Brisbane, lawfull daughter to the deceast John Brisbane of Bishops- town, : - James Houstoune, iaechiatpanah to Sir J ohn Houstbeiii of that ilk, John Drummond of Newtoun, depute by James Lundine of that ilk, Andrew Skeen, merchant in Edinburgh, conform to deputation from Abraham Davidson, merchant in Aberdeen, é ‘ : Sir James Primrose of Caringtoun, Patrick Murray, lawful son to Patrick Murray of Killor, William Orrock, wright in Canongate, and present Deacon of the said ‘eal, in name of the Incorporation of Wrights of the Canongate, conform to their commission, . ; j ’ . ee P 100 April 21. APPENDIX. Lord Alexander Hay, son to the Marquess of Tweeddale, Thomas Carruthers, stationer in pee bHEe deputed by William MGie of Balmagie, Robert Rutherfurd, Writer in Eainburh depute by a ames Denti of Muntquhanie, ° 2 , : Walter Cornwall of Bonhard, Sir John Lauder of Fountainhall, William Viscount of Strathallan, John Hamilton, Minister of the Gospell at Edinburgh, due Tis life, ond thereafter after his decease to the children of his first marriage, Walter Murray, servitor to George Clerk, junior, merchant in Edinburgh, deputed by Robert Murray of Levelands, Sir William Scott of Harden, younger, conform to Hepilatien fain William Scott of Raeburne, ‘ John Reid, merchant in Dumfreis, conform to denntation farn Theme Tene merchant in Dumfreis, William Hutchesone, merchant in Edinburgh, James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, deputed by dhditcn Craick of Derehiteke land, and William Craick of Duchlaw, James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, deputed by asidiess eect of hee James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, deputed by William idiante mer- chant in Kirkaldy, : : ° ; Peter Barton in Baronhill, John Campbell, Writer to the Signet, for wideandes Campbel younger of Calder, conform to deputation, Patrick M‘Dowall, younger of Crichan, . Henrie Rollo of Woodsyd, for John Durie, hiper in Kika, as having deputation from him, . : . Sir James Don of Newtoun, - John Archibald Writer in Edinburgh, . . Robert Blackwood, merchant in Edinburgh, conform to depuis from J ohn Forrest, minister at Prestonhaugh, ‘ Lieutenant-Colonel .John Erskine, son to David ited Ganeoue - Patrick Porteous of Halkshaw conform to deputation from James Scott of Shillwood, The said Patrick Porteous, Sorina to danaueute from Gideon Scott, son to John Scott of Wooll, The said Patrick Porteous, conform to depntadions for Walter Scott, younger of Wooll, : : 3 E 401 £400 200 300 200 400 400 200 150 300 100 300 200 100 100 100 500 100 100 400 100 200 200 200 100 100 402 APPENDIX. William Allane, portioner of Duddingstoun, James Henrysone of Pitadro, Sir Francis Scott of Thirlestane, by ae from Robert Earle of Lothians John Skene, ensign in Lord Lindsay’s regiment, . James Elphinstone, one of the Commissaries of Eainbungitby ia of Conias Patrick Leslie of Balquhan, . ‘ Thomas Mercer, Writer in Edinburgh, onion | to depehtisinn iin Thomas Thomson of Cocklaw, Minister of the Gospell at Forres, Charles Douglass, son to Colonel Sir William Douglass, . John Drummond of Newtoun, depute by Dame Jean Mercer Tad Aldie, Captain James Drummond of Comrie, James Byres, merchant in Edinburgh, i i 2 Aisa Ritchie, sacmatinii in Aberdeen, Robert Trotter, Writer in Edialnegh, “ny virtue of a ep fein Patrick Riddell of Mouslie, . d : : Lord Basil Hamilton, Patrick Porteous of Halkshaw, James Byres, merchant in Edinburgh, dept by Thomas Feiss sierchanil in Aberdeen, é John Lord Glenorchy, Roderick Pedison, in name and behalf of the Cordiners of the Canongat, for the said Incorporation, : John Borthwick, goldsmith, burgess of Edinburgh, John Langlands, late minister at Hawick, by virtue of a depiststid ‘cs Archibald Gledstains in Northouse, . James Laing, merchant in Edinburgh, by virtue 2 of a le aie from Wil- liam Blackrie, merchant in Aberdeen, Sir David Home of Crossrig, one of the Senators of the College of J ‘liga William Bennett, younger of Grubett, James Cuming, merchant in Edinburgh, , Alexander Pyper, merchant in Montrose, James Haldane, Writer in Edinburgh, by order of David Bethun of Balfour, administrator to Charles Bethun, his second son, . George Clark, merchant in Edinburgh, by order of James Hohe utah! + in Jedburgh, : , Robert Thomson, merchant in Ridsbnarhy George Andersone, son to Mr. John Andersone, minister of Leal, James Campbell of Kinpont, James Whythead in Lymkills, APPENDIX. 403 Thomas Bethune of Tarbatt, é : ny ; £200 Andrew Johnston, servant to William Pitted By virtue of a deputation from David Walker, tanner in Leslie, . i é d { 100 Sir George Suttie of Balgond, . 1000 James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, apis by William Cabitdess younger, merchant in Selkirk, : 100 James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, dept’ i William Callander, an’, merchant in Selkirk, : 100 James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, aipiite by J sti Knox, poeta in Selkirk, 3 100 Samuell M‘Lellan, hen in Edinkgeeh, oy virtue of a aepiinahich bin Patrick Heron of Kenochtie, : : : : ; 200 Apryle 28. John Bowie, merchant in Falkirk, : 100 Gideon Eliot, chirurgeon in Edinburgh, depute By Busihids Scott, Sroilit to the deceased Walter Earl of Tarras, 100 James Drummond, Under-Clerk to the Bills, dept by ‘Archibald Meinzies of Myln of Kiltney, . ; : 4 : 100 Robert Turnbull, burges of iaKih we 2 100 William Black, Writer in pig aas depute by ‘William Miateolmes Writer in Kirkaldy, ‘ : 100 James Brodie, brother-german to George Braue of Aalis By virtue of a deputation, . 100 John Chrystie, Writer in Edinburgh dope eh J ohn Melvill, Senrdbarié to the Earle of Melvill, ‘ - 100 David Ramsay, Writer tothe Signet, . 1000 David Scrimsour of Cartmore, by virtue of a ddiitalion a Gideon Seott of Falnesh, S : : ‘ : i : 200 The said David Scrimsour, 3 300 Alexander Dundas, doctor of medecine, for Mrs. Christian Casanien; disabibiie to Adam Cockburn of Ormestone, Lord Justice-Clerk, : - 100 Robert Hunter, fermorer in Straiton, : : : : : 100 John Hunter, fermorer in Hathorndean, . 100 30 Apryle. Robert Trotter, Writer in Edinburgh, - virtue of a deputation fit Gisiies Murray in Dalhousie Mains, J : . 100 Thomas Hendersone of Plewlands, : ; ‘ baie 200 Alexander Crawfurd in Abercorne, 3 ‘ PF : at 100 William Wilkie in Echline, { 100 James Nimmo, merchant in Hiinbured snide to defination from ates: ander Ragg, merchant in Aberdeen, : on “. : TOO. 404 APPENDIX. Robert Blackwood, deputed by John Gordon of Collistoun, doctor of medecine, _ Robert Blackwood, merchant in Edinburgh, deputed by Charles pe mer- chant and late bailie of Montrose, Thomas Mercer, Writer in Edinburgh, as Habiais deputation Yok John Allardes, younger, merchant in Aberdeen, ; 2 Thomas Rutherfurd of Wells, ‘i Andrew Massie for Harie Cheap of Rossie, younger, as n tbaiving dopuiaiiies from him, William Dallas, Writer to pike Majesty's Signet, as Liivitsi Videilisin feo John Dallas, Writer, burges of Fortrose, . Archibald Rule, late baillie of Edinburgh, commissionate by William Castlclaw, Archibald Rule, late baillie of Edinburgh, James Ramsay, Writer in Edinburgh, commissionat by Bachna Gasmplelll of Duneaves, ; r . : i Robert Bruce in agentes James Marshell, Writer in Edinburgh, ; John Watson, younger, merchant in Edinburgh, as ames depathGon ale David Ross, son to the deceased Robert Ross, once Provost of pris 5, Captain Patrick Murray, of Lord Murray’s regiment of foot, James Murray of Deuchar, as having deputation from Christian Carr, sister- german to John Carr of Cavers, John Haldane of Gleneagles, conform to Serailien from Thomas Gaikenb in Auchterarder, John Haldane of Gleneagles, eaten deguitibicts fot J as Mailer i in _ Balyimon, John Drummond of newition) davis by 5 ames Rsineay of Bamfe, Robert Burnet of Elrick, merchant in Aberdeen, depute by George Cruick- shank, junior, merchant in Aberdein, Robert Burnet of Elrick, merchant in Aberdeen, Laue by J ohn Ross merchant there, Robert Burnet of Elrick, didbidigelti in Riel enaatel iy James 3 Fyff mer- chant there, 7 , John Drummond of Newtoun, dedi by David Gite of J gedlaefbiicys John Drummond of Newtoun, depute by Thomas Chrighton of Tillyfergus, chamberland to the Earle of Perth, : John Drummond of Newtoun, depute by Frederick Const doianihailil in Daniele David Mikeson, merchant in Kirkaldy, Samuel M‘Lellan, merchant in Dundee, conform to ‘Aspanatiie Se William Stewart of Castle Stewart, ; " May 7. May 12. APPENDIX. Alexander Baird, merchant in Edinburgh, by deputation from Sir James Abercrombie of Birkenbog, . George Kinnaird, brother to the Lord Kinnaisdy for his brother, Patrick Lord Kinnaird, : : : ; : 4 Jean Scott, Lady Eilingston, David Rennie, merchant, burges of Fdinburgh, Thomas Ker, goldsmith in Edinburgh, conform to deputation by Menai Ker, younger, in Chatto, . ; William Cowan, present Thesaurer of Stirling, by virtue , of an act fain the said burgh, for and in name of the said burgh, Alexander Innes, merchant in Edinburgh, conform to deputation rae ie ames Erskyne, brother to the Laird of Pittodrie, 5 Archibald Douglass, brother-german to Sir William Deiilens of igiers, 2 Patrick Lord Polwarth, for his third son, Andrew Home, : Thomas Kerr, goldsmith, burges of Edinburgh, conform to deputation feat George Cranston, in Baxtounleyes, . John Swinton of that ilk, for his uncle, Sir ‘Alemautel Sainte of Moning’ . ton, one of the Senators of the Colledge of Justice, conform to deputation, John Drummond of Newtoun, for Lawrence Mercer. of Melgins, John Drummond of Newtoun, for John Young of Banchrie, Robert Douglas, merchant in Edinburgh, James Henderson, maltman in Leith, James Nimmo, merchant in Edinburgh, conform to dupatatiap by ii ames Bailie, merchant in Aberdeen, Thomas Carruthers, stationer in Edinburgh, satan to desdbatlon by J ohn Maxwell of Medleby, Thomas Carruthers, stationer in Edinburgh; omkitini to deputation by J ohn Harper in Breiriehill, David Crawford, Keeper of his Majesty’s Signet, in name of the Right Honourable Lord Basil Hamilton, . < 4 : Adam Bucknay, merchant in Lythgow, James Russell, Writer in Edinburgh, Elizabeth Lady Borthwick, William Riddell, Writer in Ruinkiirets as te ailtod es John ‘Stewie of Higdon : James Scott, servitor to the Earle of Mareshall, : John Aitkine, Secretary at War, by virtue = ‘deputation by Andrew Livitedl burges in Stranraer, . Patrick Dundas, lawfull son to Bipeiddiaydues is virtue of a deputation! by Gabrielle Alisone of Dunjop, 200 200 200 300 200 100 400 200 100 100 100 100 100 100 1000 100 100 400 100 100 100 100 406 APPENDIX. William Riddell, Writer in Edinburgh, as deputed by Mrs. Agnes Dalyell, eldest lawfull daughter to umq! Sir Robert Dalyell of pean Knight and Baronet, ‘ £200 Harie Maule, Writer in Bamburgh iil to deptation by rat ames Kyd of Craigie, : 100 May 14, William Riddell, Writer in Edinburgh, as septal by James Maxwell, eldest id 1696. lawful son to John Maxwell of Barncleugh, . 100 Patrick Campbell, Writer in Edinburgh, conform to dopesaina by Mrs. sag Murray, daughter to Woodend, ‘ ° : : 100 James Balnevis of Glencarss, é - 200 Patrick Porteous of Halkshaw, conform to stephanie by Marites Aidaiaeis eldest lawful daughter to the deceast Patrick Adamson, merchant in Kelso, ; 100 Andrew Robertsone, Pe in Edinburgh Sci to dbuthiti by George Robertsone, Writer in Diautilinies ; ; 100 Andrew Robertsone, chirurgeon in Edinburgh, conform to dabaketicl by Jean Jeamisone, daughter to Edward Jeamisone, minister of the gospel, 100 Robert Innes, Writer to the Signet, conform to pra by William Earle Marischall, . - .° 1000 Robert Innes, Writer to the Signet, any to deities by ‘Robert re. buthnot, servitor to the Earle Marischall, . , 3 , 100 Michael Anderson of Tushalaw, . : ‘ r : 3 100 Walter Elliot of Erckletown, . : 100 May 19. Robert Burnet of Elrick, conform to depubicion be Aleushider odin : 100 William Brown, Writer in Edinburgh, conform to deputation by the town of Innerkeithing, ; : ! : : 100 Sir Robert Sibbald, dischat of sndecii ‘ 100 Alexander Blair, merchant in Dundee, adie to depribacia ae William Rait, minister of Monikie, . , : 3 : : 100 Alexander Blair, merchant in Dundee, . 60 Andrew Urie, late minister of the gospel at Miktkciuaiete for himself i in life. rent, and, after his decease, to Anna and Elizabeth Uries, his lawfull children, in fee, equally betwixt them, : : 200 Robert Neilsone, merchant in Inverness, eons va William Neibies his brother, merchant there, E 175 May 21, William Riddell, Writer in Edinburgly, as despa by William Heeisiealy 1696, brother-german to Alexander Fergusson of Isle, Advocate, . 100 George Home, Writer in Edinburgh, as deputed by Adam Craick of rem land, and William Craick of Duchlaw, " é ” é 200 ’ May 26, 1696. May 28, 1696. June 1, 1696. June 2, 1696. 4 June, 1696. APPENDIX. James Byres, merchant in es a oie A William Souter, merchant in Aberdeen, : ‘ Marie Douglas, Ladie Hiltone, Master John Campbell, Writer to the Sige, as ditnivest by David Cather brother to Castlehill, : d : Robert Pringle in Fairnyherst, Robert Bruce, goldsmith in Edinburgh) depated by Robert Hersde: aia Craig, of Ramornie, John Drummond of Newtoun, for Todas Diehao ia: achtuslachd to my Lord Drummond, John Drummond of Newtoun, depute by J ames Fleming , governor to Octer- tyre younger, James Watson of Saughton, Thomas Drummond of Logie Almond, ‘ Jean Arthur, daughter to John Arthur of Newton,. Robert Orrok, merchant in Edinburgh, Tsobell Yeaman, relict of Robert Robertsone, merchant in Haddin, gton, Robert Innes, Writer to the Signet, by virtue of a deputation from James Milne, servant to the Earle Mareschal, George Turnbull, Writer in Edinburgh, Fi virtue of a depiitaitod from is ames Carnegie of Craigo, , : Michael] Allan, merchant in Edinburgh, Thomas Warrander, painter in Edinburgh, David Crawford, Keeper of his Majesty’s naa in name 2 of J oie Gaatie d, collector at Inverness, William Eliot, merchant in Edinburgh, in name of Gilbert Eliot of Stone Robert Fraser, Advocate, by virtue of a deputation from Robert Cuming of Relugas, merchant of Inverness, Robert Fraser, eo in name of William Duff of Dyplet 3 mer eiaik of Inverness, Robert Fraser, Ancntiit in name ‘of Adeduder Duffe of Diniibis e, ner en of Inverness, William Carruthers of Whitecroft, Robert Fraser, Advocate, in name of John Barber siucliane of Rivenidss Gilbert More, Writer in Edinburgh, John Haldane of Gleneagles, having a depeaition fois. oars Stitling of Herbertshire, William Black, Advocate, ania a dopafaiion fbi J he ean eas mer- chant in Aberdeen, . 100 11 June, 1696. 18. July 6. 10. July 25. 408 APPENDIX. Sir Archibald Mure of Thorntoun, for John Flint, minister of Lochswade, John Drummond of Newtoun, depute by Andrew Gairdner, merchant in Perth, John Drummond of Newtoun, by deputation from James Coupar of Lochblaire, Charles Jackson, merchant in Edinburgh, 5 7 ; . Sir John Hamilton of Halcraige, John Haldane of Gleneagles, depute by ‘t ohn Crahati son to Ji sti Gretiiinas clerk to the Chancellary, William Wisheart, minister of the pean at Leith, fits by = Casing: ham, daughter to umquhill James Cuningham, indweller in Alloway, Adam Drummond of Meginch, Agnes Campbell, relict of Andrew Aner, his Msjty ptr, Sir Thomas Burnett of Leyes, Andrew Myrton, merchant in Edinburgh, Thomas Hay of Balhousie, : ; James Elphinstone, in name of Misidies of Pitfodels, John Drummond of Newtoun, for Dame sen uae a: Kinloch, John Drummond of Newtoun, 2 James Menzies of Schian, Mungo Graeme of Gorthie, : . James Smith, present baillie of St. nieuwe as Harti commission from the town-council of the said burgh, James Fletcher, merchant in Dundee, by diab fh Robert Fletcher of Ballinshoe, James Fletcher, merchant in Danie « deviitativn from Silvester iyi minister of Kirriemure, James Fletcher, merchant in Dundee, e depeitation Fah David Forrtetisl minister of Longforgan, ~ John Barbour, merchant in Inverness, by deities fick the enn of 21. the said town, William Johnstoune, in Barnpliahe John Allerdes, merchant in Aberdeen, by deputation — eae ee Walker, merchant in the said burgh, ; ‘ : Thomas Schairp of Houstoun, John Reid, merchant in Dumfreis, depute i Robert J slinialite late: provost felt, James Marshall, Writer in Edinburgh, depute by Andrew Burnet, brother- german to Mr. Thomas Burnet of Kemnay, ' ; Sir Alexander Cumyng of Culter, : William Dunlop, Principall of the Colledge of Glasgow, depute by Robert Wyllie, minister of the gospell at Hamilton, £100 100 100 100 400 100 July 28. 30. dl. Aug. 1. APPENDIX. James Maxwell of ilies orth, merchant in Glasgow, : Mr. James Broun, minister of the united charges of Lundie and F oulis, . James Pringle of Torwoodlie, curator to George Pringle of Greenknow, his nephew, with his desire, and with the consent of the remanent curators, and in his name, : Alexander Broun of dangly Kes ee Hugh Cuninghame, merchant, Alexander Shirreff, Writer in Edtolarate George Warrender, merchant in Edinburgh, Mr. George Murray, doctor of physick, Andrew Teuchler, merchant, Patrick Campbell, brother to Monzie, James Samson, Writer in Edinburgh, Thomas Dalrymple, doctor of medicine, Sir George Hamilton of Barnton, Sir James Oswald of Fingaltoune, William Aikman of Cairny, Advocate, Daniel Lodge, for Alexander ea ses tA in Baabarehy, James Lord Drummond, James Dunlop, merchant in Bdtoburah, # in name ae for behoof of the Tourn of Queensferry, Sir Robert Cheislie, Lord Eeevah of Ridharaks in name and ty apoint ment of the royal burroughs, 5 : John Drummond of Newtoune, James Balfour, merchant in Edinburgh, John Swinton of that ilk, Mr. William Dunlop, Principall of the College of Gass Henrie Rollo of Woodsyd, John Grahame, younger of * | i William Arbuckle, merchant in Glasgow, John Corse, merchant in Glasgow, : Sir Archibald Mure, in name of the burgh of Getonan of Fyfe, . * The place omitted in MS. 409 £200 100 400 200 900 100 1000 200 100 100 100 200 500 500 200 600 — 1000 100 3000 1125 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 100 410 APPENDIX. GLASGOW SUBSCRIPTION LIST. Glasgow, March the 5th 1696. Pursuant to an Act of Parliament, entituled, Act for a Company trade- ing to Africa and the Indies, we under subscribers do each of us for himself become oblidged for the payment of the respective sums severally by us subscribed, subject to the rules, conditions, and con- stitutions of the said Company ; and doe hereby depute or such other person or persons as any seven or more of the per- sons named in,the said Act of Parliament shall appoint, to enter the same by way of subscription for each of us respectively in the books of the said Company, for that purpose, at Edinburgh. Thursday John Anderson, Provest of Glasgow, for the Magistrates and Councell of the the 5th said burgh, . £3000 my John Aird, Dean of Gild of Paka, for the Meachgiitel ites of the ‘at burgh, ; 5 ; : 1000 William Dunlop, Principal of the Colledge of Ghacene ‘ 1000 William Dunlop, Principal of the ee of eoeer as depute to Soha Dunlop of that ilk, . : » 500 Patrick Simson, minister att Renfrew, . : = 100 John Boyd, one of the regents of the Colledge of Gheaabe. j 100 John Corse, merchant in Glasgow, for himself and partiners of the easter suggarie there, £3000, viz——James Peadie, Robert Corse, John Luke, William Crosse, and himself [John Corse,] five hundred pounds ai and George and Robert Boyle, two hundred and = Sa each, 3000 John Corse, merchant in Glasgow, . : 500 John Spreull, senior, merchant in Glasgow, é : , 1000 Mr. John Tran, ane of the Regents of the Colledge of Giada; : ‘ 100 Mr. John Law, ane of the Regents of the Colledge of mit i . 100 William Woodrop, merchant in Glasgow, ; ‘ : 500 William Arbuckle, merchant in Glasgow, ‘ ' . d 1000 APPENDIX. 411 James Louk, goldsmith in Glasgow, 5 £200 Mungo Cochrane, merchant in Glasgow, for jitinalt and his pairiners, viz.— Patrick Gow and William Struthers, : : é ‘ 1000 Eriday, William Woodrop, merchant in Glasgow, ; F ; ; 500 6 a Daniel Campbell, merchant in Glasgow, . 5 ; : § 1000 * John Todde, merchant in Glasgow, _ : ; : : 1000 Mr. James Brown, minister of the Gospel in eee : : : 100 Saturday, Patrick Houstoune, merchant in ae : : i 4 1000 7 a Thomas Baxter, telour, . : : a ‘ 300 “"" $tephen Crawford, coppersmith in betas: ‘ ; ; : 100 George Robisonne, belt-maker in Glasgow, : f : é 100 John Robisonne, hammerman in Glasgow, ‘ 100 William Watterston, deacon of the hammermen, in name of the jelnienbenaee trade, 100 John Armour, taylour in Glasgow, ‘ ‘ : 5 : 200 John Robertson, junior, merchant in Glasgow, . : A : 500 John Patersone, wright, Glasgow, Ss. z ; b : 100 Hugh Montgomerie, merchant in Glasgow, ‘ ‘ 2 3 1000 Henry Chrystie, merchant in Glasgow, . : 3 : ee 100 Robert Stevenson, for the wrights of Glasgow, . : : : 100 Robert Stevenson, wright in Glasgow, . ; ; ; : 100 James Thomsone, tanner in Glasgow, . ; : ‘ : 100 John Leckie of Mye, merchant in Glasgow, P ; : 2 100 William Cochran, merchant in Glasgow, ‘ : 200 John Adam, deacon of the taylours in Glasgow, in name and behoof of the Incorporation, ‘ : ‘ ‘ : r 200 Thomas Pollock, taylour in Glaospit ; : : ‘ : 100 Alexander Adam, taylour in Glasgow, . : . 3 ‘ 100 William Gilchrist, merchant in Glasgow, . sees 5 ‘ 100 William Scott, merchant in Glasgow, . é : ; ‘ 100 Munday, Mattheu Cuming, junior, merchant in Glasgow, . : é 1000 9 March John Andersone, junior, merchant in Glasgow, . : ‘ 4 100 TOG: George Danizell, wright in Glasgow, ; . ¢ : F 300 John Smelie, merchant in Glasgow, 3 : : *. 5 100 John Currie, merchant in Glasgow, : : : ; : 100 John Anderson of Dowhill, Provest of Glasgow, . : ; i 1000 John Aird, Dean of Gild of Glasgow, . P ‘ : ; 100 James Slosse, merchant in Glasgow, : : ; : : 100 John Stirling, merchant in Glasgow, F : . ‘ : 100 David Ladley, merchant in Glasgow, : : ‘ : 200 Tuesday, 10 March 1696. 412 APPENDIX. John Boyd, chirurgian apothecary of Glasgow, William Marshall, merchant in Glasgow, William Buchanan, merchant in Glasgow, James Gibsone, merchant in Glasgow, John Scott, for the corporation of Coupers in Gilead William Napier, merchant in Glasgow, Henrie Marshall, chirurgian appothecary in the odes Marion Davidson, relict of Mr. John Glen, Minister of the inl, William Barklay, merchant in Glasgow, . : ° James Adam, merchant in Glasgow, Lawrence Dinwiddie, merchant in Glasgow, Walter Achison, feir of Rochsolloch, William Baxter, merchant in Glasgow, James Johnstoun, merchant in Glasgow, William Blackburn, merchant in Glasgow, Andrew Lees, merchant in Glasgow, Thomas Johnstoun, merchant in Glasgow, George Johnston, merchant in Glasgow, Donald Govan, merchant in Glasgow, John Buchanan, merchant in Glasgow, Finlay Gray, merchant in Glasgow, Thomas Callder, merchant in Glasgow, William Mackre, Deacon of the Baxters, in name pia the Tisshsopisnihib of Bax- ters of Glasgow, William Mackre, Deacon of the Biden Robert Rodgers, merchant in Glasgow, Christian Boyd, relict of Peter Gemmell, cineca in Sihiticace John Grahame, younger of Dougaldstoun, Thomas Kennedy, doctor of medicine, Alexander Cairlile, merchant in Glasgow, Robert Dinwiddie, merchant in Glasgow, William Bonteine, sone to Nicoll Bonteine of Arai George Buntine, peutherer in Glasgow, . Neill M‘Vicar, tanner in Glasgow, Robert Corbett, merchant in Glasgow, John Kennedy, merchant in Glasgow, John Ritchie, elder, merchant in Glasgow, Robert Zuill, merchant in Glasgow, Sussanna Douglas, relict of Ninian Andersone, mnsahisitd in (ilaaidonn APPENDIX. Alexander Tran, chirurgian in Glasgow, . Thomas Alstoun, shoemaker in Glasgow, . Thomas Baxter, taylour in Glasgow, Thomas Smith, appothecary in Glasgow, . George Nisbitt, conveener of the trades of Glasgow, in name ane for the ate , trades’ house, George Nisbitt, glasier in Genes George Buchanan, maltman in Glasgow, William Cuming, visitor of the incorporation of this maltmen of re in name of the said incorporation of maltmen, . Patrick Bryce, maltman in Glasgow, John Paull, maltman in Glasgow, John Adam, senior, merchant in Glasgow, John Bryce, deacon of the measons, in name of the cee moaitiong of the measons of Glasgow, 101 Sub-gJohn Donaldsone, elder, a ints: in Chesaw. scryvers. William Smith of Brousterland, Wednesday George Herbertson, merchant in Glasgow, 11 March 1696 Thursday, 12 March 1696. Friday, 13 March 1696. Robert Allene, present deacon of the cordiners of Gigsitie in name casa behalf of the said incorporation of cordiners, John Scott, maltman in Rutherglein, John Spreull of Milneton, Peter Corbett, maltman in Glasgow, James Lees, merchant in Glasgow, Bessie Peadie, relict of umqll. John Maxwell, reaidbcirbe in a Giteese James Adam, merchantt in Glasgow, Patrick Gilmor, taylor in Glasgow, Walter Dennistoune, merchant in Glasgow, Bessie Bogle, relict of umq!!. Robert Bogle, elder, Ser in hit , Patrick Tennent, gardiner in Glasgow, Robert Scott, taylour in Glasgow, William Haddin, weaver in Glasgow, John Steven, weaver in Glasgow, _John Cauldwell of that ilk, Robert Urie, in Milnbrae, William Thomsone of Corshill, Thomas Gemmill, hammerman in Gorbals, John Corse, commissar clerk of Glasgow, John Wilsone, bookbinder in Glasgow, Saturday, 14 March 1696. Tuesday, 17 March. Wednesday, 13 March 1696. Thursday, 19 March 1696. Saturday, 21 March 1696. Tuesday, 24 March 1696. Wednesday, 25 March 1696. Fryday, 27 March 1696. Saturday, 28 March 1696. Munday, 30 March 1696. Tuesd 31 March 1696. Wednesday, April Ist. 414 APPENDIX. James Loggie, taylour in Glasgow, George Logan, maltman in Gorballs, William Peacock, cordoner in Glasgow, . William Carmichaell, taylour in Glasgow, George Lockhart, merchant in Glasgow, George Lockhart, merchant in Glasgow, for J of cts | Se ai in Port-Glasgow, Mungo Stirling of Glorett, for Robert Sticking, his brother germane, John Penman, Writer in Glasgow, : William M‘Crockett, in Muire of Gorballs, Nicholes Deschamp, paper-maker at Cathcart, John Carsell, in Lownsdail, in the paroch of Paisley, John Maxwell of Williamwood, in the paroch of Cathcart, William Woodrope, portioner of Dalmarnock, in the barony Batts of Glasgow, ; Hugh Warden, merchant in Edisior, Archibald Cambell, merchant in Glasgow, William Smith, merchant in Glasgow, James Wilsone, merchant in Hamiltoun, 4 John Robertsone, younger, merchant in Glasgow, for pi abe ‘Bae second lawfull sone to umq!! James Robertsone, merchant in Glasgow, John Bowman, merchant in Glasgow, John Allan, merchant in Hamiltoun, Robert Tennoch, merchant in Glasgow, . Thomas Broun, litster in Glasgow, John Semple, merchant in Hamiltoun, Thomas Glessell, merchant in Glasgow, William Niven, smith in Pollockshaws, William Sheills, in Pollocksheills, John Smith, wright in Gorballs, William Bayllie of Montoun, Francis Baylie, brother-german to William Baylie of Mintagm James M‘Bryd, town-clerk of Glasgow, John Smith, merchant in Glasgow, Peter Murdoch, merchant in Glasgow, Mungo Campbell of Nether Place, Hugh Campbell, merchant, son to the deceast Sir Hogh Campbell of Cesk Matthew Campbell of Mirae, . ; Thomas Boyd of Pitcon, . “3 - . Thursday, Ayr, the 2d of Aprill. APPENDIX. Daniel Campbell, by vertew of a commission from John hates junior, of Newlands, John Alexander of Blackhouse, fer himself and by commission for the Tide Grange, : i : Thomas M‘Goune, pavat of lyin ne vertue of a commission given to him by the Magistrates and Council of the said burgh, in behalfe and for the use of the said town, é : i : : Thomas M‘Goune, provost, Alexander Cuninghame, merchant in Levine, John Thomson of Seaven Acres, George Monro Clerk of Cuningham, William Cuninghame, apothecarie in Irvin, John Hamilton, Wryter in Irving, William M‘Taggart, younger, merchant in ees Eduard Kerr, merchant in Irvin, Mr. Patrick Warner, minister at Irvine, . Zacharias Gemill of Bogsyde, P Robert Moore, provost of Ayr, by virtue of a commission given to me iy the Magistrates and Counsell of the said burgh, in behalf and for the use of the said town, ; : é : : . Robert Moore, above designed, John Moore, merchant in Ayr, Hew Crawfurd, merchant in Ayre, John Macolme, merchant in Ayr, ‘ David M‘Cubin, younger, Knockdollian, John Vans, merchant in Ayr, . ‘ James Hutchisone, merchant in Ayr, Samuell Moore, merchant in Ayr, William Robine, merchant in Ayr, John Millikine, merchant in Ayr, James Wallace, merchant in Aire, Hugh Hamilton, merchant in Ayre, Thomas M‘Jorrow, merchant in Ayr, Hugh Hay, merchant in Ayr, Robert Hunter, merchant in Air, John Fergussone, skipper in Air, Patrick Coltrane, merchant in Ayr, Charles Logan, merchant in Ayr, 5 James Stevensone, chyrurgeon apothecary in Ayr, e £200 200 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 200 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 Friday, 3d of Aprile. Munday, the 6th Apryle. Wednesday the 15th day, 1696. Thursday 16 Aprile 1696. 416 APPENDIX. Patrick Liston, minister at Ayr, . Mungo Campbell, merchant in Ayr, Robert Boyd of Trochrig, : David Kennedy of Kirkmichael, . William Chalmer, merchant in Ayr, John Ballantine, merchant in Ayr, David Fergussone, merchant in Ayr, Elias Cathcart, merchant in Ayr, John Finlay, merchant in Kilmarnock, Hugh Hunter, apothecarie in Kilmarnock, Hugh Hunter, above designed, William Fairlie, Brunsfield, William M‘Kerrell of Hilhousse, Charles Maitland, doctor of medicine, Charles Dalrymple, Writer in Kilmarnock, John Crawfurd, younger of Crawfurdland, Robert Milligane, merchant in Kilmarnock, Matthew Hopkine, merchant in Kilmarnock, Alexander Moore, younger, merchant in Kilmarnock, Robert Pattersone, merchant in Kilmarnock, John Baird, merchant in Kilmarnock, Robert Wright, merchant in Kilmarnock, James Thomson, in Hill of Kilmars, William Moris, apothecarie in Kilmarnock, Georg Bordiand, merchant in Kilmarnock, William Watson of Tour, John Kyle, merchant in Largs, ; John Clerk, elder, merchant in Greenock, John Alexander, merchant in Glasgow, James Maxwell, merchant in Glasgow, William Norvell, merchant in Glasgow, . Patrick Bryce, maltman in Glasgow, »Captain Alexander Andersone, of Sir John Hill’s ‘resbeeiadle Captain Charles Forbes, of Sir John Hill’s regiment, Captain James Menzies, of Sir John Hill’s regiment, Captain Francis Ferquhar, of Sir John Hill’s regiment, Ensign Charles Cuninghame, of Sir John Hill’s regiment, Captain Charles Forbes, of Sir John Hill’s regiment, Patrick Maxwell, tanner in Glasgow, 125 hegedr ¢- » * APPENDIX. Fryday, v 17 Aprile 1696. Lieutenant Charles Ross, of Sir John Hill’s neeiment, Saturday, Aprile 18, 1696. Adam Montgomerie, merchant in Glasgow, . : — Sea Claud Alexander of Newtoun, : : Andrew Cochrane, town-clerk of Rent, as having det ee Pon the said burgh, 4 James Montgomerie, younger, merolllit in Glasses, William Greenleis, merchant, and ane of the present baillies of Paisley! be vertew of act of counsell granted by the Town of Paisley, in name and behalf of the said Town of Paisley, Georg Lockhart, merchant in Glasgow, James Walkinshaw, merchant in Glasgow, James Hamilton, younger, merchant in Glasgow, Henry Smith, merchant in Glasgow, Matthew Aitchison, merchant in Glasgow, John Wallace, son to the deceased Michael Wallace in Gicttee, bo co] 325.241 g0737D 59€462 ill NO) sseded uoyieg sul tli) LeThOLhOLG (ove Sze Buleq Ad S3i¥vVUusI ISUBAINN JNO Ml Loz ll £19 " A jO vonoees e ll) Qa MTEC PED ah as < 4+ Bee aes oy > * eee 2 : ae : ao aes 3 : BE LA ; = ee ee = SSS = SS ee ae SS reat, * nee